Oral Cancer Screening

Thomas & Associates, DDS, Inc.
Regular screening for cancer during your dental check-up is the most important step you can take when it comes to treatment and prevention of cancer. The National Cancer Institute estimates nearly 50,000 new cases of oral cancer will occur in the United States each year, and more than 9,000 will die.

That’s why Dr. Thomas looks for indications of oral cancer before you experience symptoms. Screening during your annual check-up assures an opportunity to catch oral cancer early when treatment is easy and your prognosis is strong.

What to expect

Your oral cancer screening takes only a few minutes and is performed during your dental cleaning and exam. Most oral cancers occur on the tongue and floor of the mouth so your dentist will examine these areas carefully.

Your dentist will look for lesions, areas of Leukoplakia (an abnormal white patch of cells) and areas of Erythroplakia (an abnormal red patch of cells). Such lesions may be precancerous or cancerous.

Your dentist will also palpate the jaw and neck areas for signs of asymmetry, swelling or temporal wasting. If any areas of suspicion are found, your dentist can recommend the next step to identify any abnormal tissue that might be precancerous or cancerous.

To schedule an oral cancer screening in the North Canton, Canton, or surrounding Ohio areas, contact Thomas & Associates.

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