The Importance of Getting an Oral Screening

Oral cancer is a familiar danger in today’s society, as are the risky behaviors that can cause it, such as smoking. However, the word “oral” doesn’t pertain to just “mouth”, it also includes the lips, tongue, and cheek. Oral cancer can strike at any part of the mouth.

It’s good to know that there are quite a few warning signs that can show up to warn you of oral cancer. At first, oral cancer can feel like a non-fading canker sore, and you may experience lumps in the mouth – including the lips and gums. Some other early warning signs include white or red patches, bad breath, unexplained bleeding from the mouth, weight loss, and trouble speaking or chewing. These can be accompanied by pain in the ear, a change in your voice, or a sore throat.

It’s important to schedule annual visits with your dentists so that they can monitor for anything unusual. While you can and should screen at home, there are things you can miss that your doctor won’t. These screenings are typically done after the staff of Family Dentistry, Inc. finishes cleaning your teeth. Dr. Haas, Dr. Haas, and Dr. Burns inspect your mouth by using a glove, a special light, or a type of dye.

Please note an abnormality may not be cancer. Family Dentistry, Inc. will run tests on anything unusual and offer advice on what you should do.

If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of our cancer screening in Lebanon, Ohio, please call Family Dentistry, Inc. at 513-932-6991.