At Restoration Dental, we are committed to not only maintaining your beautiful smile but also ensuring your overall health. As part of our comprehensive dental care services, we offer thorough oral cancer screenings to help detect potential issues early. Just like with any form of cancer, early detection plays a crucial role in improving the success of treatment. As your trusted dentist in Winston Salem, we encourage you to take proactive steps toward protecting your health with regular oral cancer screenings.
Oral cancer can develop in various areas of your mouth, including your lips, tongue, gums, and throat. During your routine check-up, we will carefully examine these areas for any signs of abnormalities or potential issues. In addition to our visual inspection, we will also ask about any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you’ve noticed any changes or discomfort in your mouth that have persisted for more than a week, it’s important to let us know. Symptoms that could indicate oral cancer include:
- Persistent ear pain
- Unexplained mouth bleeding
- Sores or ulcers in your mouth that won’t heal
- Red or white patches in your mouth
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lumps or swelling around your mouth
- A sore throat without cold or sinus symptoms
- A feeling that something is caught in the back of your throat
- Pain or difficulty swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue
Oral cancer is a serious condition, with one person dying from it every hour in the United States. While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors can increase your risk. These include a family history of the disease, excessive sun exposure, a poor diet, and heavy alcohol consumption. Tobacco users, whether smoked, chewed, or in other forms, are six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-users. Men are more commonly affected by oral cancer than women, and people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may also face an increased risk.
The good news is that when oral cancer is caught early, the survival rate is 80–90%. Early detection can lead to less invasive treatments and a higher chance of recovery. In contrast, cancers that are diagnosed at later stages may have spread beyond the mouth and are often more complex to treat.
If you’re due for a check-up or have any concerns about your oral health, contact us today to schedule your oral cancer screening. At Restoration Dental, we’re here to support your health and well-being, providing expert care with a personal touch. Don’t wait. Regular screenings are a key part of maintaining not just your smile, but your overall health.
