Protect Your Smile and Health with Quick and Painless Oral Cancer Screenings

Mouth cancer develops without symptoms, making early detection critical. Travis A Bell DDS PLLC offers oral cancer screenings in Greensboro, North Carolina, and the nearby locations. Our thorough screenings detect cancerous and precancerous signs, allowing early intervention before the condition advances. 

Step up your preventive care with oral cancer screenings in the Piedmont Triad area. Visit Drs. Travis A Bell and Janna C. Matko today, and take a proactive step in protecting your overall well-being.

What are the early signs of mouth cancer?

Oral cancer can develop anywhere in the mouth, including the tongue, gums, cheeks, and throat. Recognizing the early signs is crucial for successful treatment. If you notice any of the following symptoms, schedule a dental check-up as soon as possible:

  • Persistent mouth sores that don’t respond to medication
  • White or red patches in the mouth
  • Unexplained pain or tenderness in the mouth or throat
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
  • A lump in the cheek or neck
  • Numbness or tingling in the mouth or lips
  • Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
  • Loose teeth without an apparent cause

Oral cancer is always thought to be an older person’s disease, but today, it affects even the younger population. This is primarily because of the spread of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The other risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, old age, and genetic factors. While certain groups are at risk of oral cancer, no one is safe. Men and women of all ages should consider routine cancer screenings at least once annually or as directed by the doctor.

What can I expect during my mouth cancer exam?

An oral cancer screening is part of every dental check-up—you don’t have to schedule a separate appointment. The screenings are quick and painless and don’t need any preparation. Before the exam, your dentist will ask you to remove any aligners, dentures, or other removable appliances to ensure a clear, unobstructed view of your gums.

Next, the dentist will visually assess your lips, cheeks, tongue, and mouth lining for abnormal patches, lesions, sores, etc. The dentist also palpitates your oral structures to detect the presence of lumps or unusual masses. Special dyes and lights are sometimes used to assess the suspect areas further. If we suspect oral cancer, we recommend a biopsy to confirm or rule out the diagnosis.

Why are oral cancer screenings important?

Mouth cancer kills at least one person every hour in America. While oropharyngeal cancers account for about 2% of all cancer deaths in the US, it’s still a dangerous condition because detection mainly occurs in advanced stages. 

Oral cancer screenings are crucial for early detection when the cancer is at its earliest, most treatable stage. Our cancer exams are thorough. We check places you can’t see yourself, including the back of the throat and under the tongue.

Oral cancer screenings are simple and painless but can potentially save a life. Our patients tell us that peace of mind is invaluable.

Do you need oral cancer screening?

Dental check-ups at Travis A Bell DDS PLLC are comprehensive and include mouth cancer screenings. Is your oral cancer exam due in the Piedmont Triad area? Call (336) 274-8386 and reserve your appointment with Dr. Bell and the team. Let’s protect your well-being with this proactive step!