Oral Cancer Examination Specialist

Cedarwood Pleasanton Dentistry Our Services Oral Cancer Examination

Cedarwood Pleasanton Dentistry

Dentists located in Pleasanton, CA

Getting oral cancer examinations done regularly is a key part of maintaining good overall health. At Cedarwood Pleasanton Dentistry in Pleasanton, California, the team provides these routine checks as part of every dental exam. With regular checkups, patients can catch oral cancer in its early stages when it’s far easier to treat and recover from. For a routine dental exam that includes an oral cancer examination, call the office or book an appointment online today.

Oral Cancer Examination Q & A

What are the signs of oral cancer?

Here are some of the most common signs to look out for when it comes to suspecting oral cancer.

  • Lip or mouth sores that don’t heal
  • White or red patches inside your mouth
  • New growths or bumps inside your mouth
  • Loose teeth
  • Mouth or ear pain
  • Painful swallowing

However, it’s not always easy to detect signs of oral cancer on your own.

Why are oral cancer examinations so important?

Oral cancer examinations are so important because dental professionals can dismiss a symptom that’s driving you crazy, verify a diagnosis, or find signs of oral cancer you never would have noticed.

The most important reason to have regular oral cancer examinations is because most of the time, the diagnosis can be very treatable if caught early enough. At Cedarwood Pleasanton Dentistry, the team uses advanced technological equipment that allows for accurate diagnoses in even the earliest stages.

A screening during your regular checkup is the best way to prevent oral cancer. Generally, you should have an oral cancer examination at least once a year.

Who is at risk for oral cancer?

Here are some of the most common risk factors for oral cancer that can help you determine if you are at risk.

  • Age (being over 40 increases your risk)
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Excessive sun exposure

However, even if none of the risk factors listed above apply to you, it’s still entirely possible to be diagnosed with oral cancer.

How does an oral cancer examination work?

During an oral cancer examination, your Cedarwood Pleasanton Dentistry dentist performs a comprehensive screening to check for any cancerous bumps, sores, or growths. They use gloves to feel around the tissues inside your mouth to detect any abnormalities.

If anything appears out of the ordinary, your dentist may ask you to come in for a follow-up visit to see if signs persist. They may also opt for a biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of cells for laboratory testing. When you come back in for a follow-up visit, your dentist will present you with the results and treatment options if needed.

To schedule your next visit complete with an oral cancer examination, call Cedarwood Pleasanton Dentistry or book an appointment online today.

What we offer

Services