Oral Cancer Screenings
Carlos Rodriguez, DMD, offers a comprehensive range of dental services, including oral cancer screening in Tucson, AZ. The importance of early detection of oral cancer cannot be overstated. Each year, nearly 50,000 Americans will be diagnosed with the disease. Oral cancer may develop in various parts of the oral cavity, including the pharynx, the throat, the sinuses, the floor of the mouth, on the insides of the cheeks, anywhere on the tongue and even the lips.
The Importance of Early Detection
Like other types of cancer, early detection of oral cancer is essential to have the best possible outcome. Having undetected and untreated oral cancer can be life-threatening. There’s no reason to risk undetected oral cancer since screenings are so easy when you visit the dental office of Carlos Rodriguez, DMD.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Early stages of oral cancer often do not present obvious signs. However, the following symptoms may indicate the presence of the disease:
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Numbness in or around the mouth
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Chronic sores, either painful or not painful
- Persistent or chronic sore throat
- Mouth pain that won’t go away
- Eroded areas, rough spots, or unusual lumps on lips, gums, lips, or other oral soft tissue
- Sensitivity of the neck, mouth, or face
Keep in mind that you may not have these exact symptoms, or you may have only one or two of them. Never try to diagnose yourself at home. Always seek the professional help of a dentist in Tucson, AZ.
Who’s at Risk For Oral Cancer?
Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use, previous oral cancer diagnosis, HPV (human papillomavirus), frequent/heavy alcohol use, a diet low in fruits and vegetables, significant exposure to ultraviolet light, and genetic predisposition. We encourage anyone concerned about these risk factors or exhibiting symptoms to contact our office for an oral cancer screening.
Oral Cancer Screening in Tucson, AZ
The screening process at Carlos Rodriguez DMD involves a comprehensive examination of the mouth for any abnormal tissue that may indicate precancerous or cancerous conditions. A device called a VELscope® may also be used to identify suspicious-looking lesions that may not be easily noticed otherwise.
If a suspicious area is identified, a biopsy will be performed, and the tissue will be sent for evaluation by a pathologist. Following the pathology results, we’ll discuss available treatment options if needed.
