Regular Cancer Screenings at a Dentist’s Office Save Lives

Oral cancer is scary, but it’s easily treatable when detected early. At Grand Dental Arts in Toms River, New Jersey, we don’t just check for signs of cavities and gum disease only during routine dental check-ups. We scrutinize your gums, tongue, throat, and other oral structures to detect signs of mouth cancer for early diagnosis and treatment. Oral cancer screenings are painless and only take about 10 minutes to complete.

Early signs of mouth cancer

Oral cancer can manifest in several places in your mouth, including your lips, palate, tongue, gums, throat, and other areas in your oral cavity. While the below symptoms could be a sign of other conditions, they often are warning signs of mouth cancer. 

If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor for further evaluation.

• Mouth sores that don’t heal
• Red or white patches on the lining of your mouth
• Mouth pain
• Abnormal lumps in your mouth
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
• Difficult or painful swallowing

Certain factors, including tobacco and alcohol use, increase your risk of mouth cancer. However, since anyone is at risk of mouth cancer, routine oral cancer screenings should be part of everyone’s dental care regimen. Like many cancer types, oral cancer doesn’t show obvious symptoms unless it’s at advanced stages. Regular screenings can arrest subtle signs for further scrutiny and treatment.

What to expect during oral cancer screening

We are pleased you have chosen Grand Dental Arts as your preferred dental office. We’ll do our very best to meet all your expectations. Mouth cancer screenings are done at the same time you book your regular dental check-ups — no need to have a separate appointment for this life-saving procedure. 

During a mouth cancer screening, Dr. Colleen Williamson visually inspects your oral cavity for sores, patches, lumps, and other anomalies that indicate the presence of cancer. Using gloved hands, your doctor palpitates your neck, throat, and tissues in your mouth to feel for lumps and other abnormalities. 

Sometimes, your dentist can use special dyes and lights to separate healthy cells from abnormal ones. Depending on your exam results, we may order follow-up tests or refer you to a specialist for a biopsy and other specialized tests.

Schedule your oral cancer exam today!

Oral cancer is easily treatable when detected early but can quickly spread without treatment. Don’t take chances with your health! Schedule your oral exam today at Grand Dental Arts by dialing 732-286-7000. We are strategically located at 14 Grand Ave, Toms River, NJ, but we welcome new and recurring patients from the nearby regions of Lavallette, Bayville, and Ocean Gate, NJ.