Oral Cancer Screening
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral Cancer Screening Columbus, OH
Oral cancer screening is an examination performed by a dentist to look for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. There are a variety of reasons why it is a good idea to schedule regular dental exams throughout the year, but one that is often overlooked is the fact that, while these routine check ins do allow us to perform deep cleanings or monitor how recent procedures are doing, these exams also allow East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry to monitor your overall oral health and identify potential issues early. We are not just examining your teeth, we are examining your glands, the areas outside your mouth, gums, temporomandibular joint, skin, lips, and palate.
About 50,000 Americans every year are diagnosed with oral cancer and nearly 10,000 will be fatal. Originally thought to be a risk factor limited to smokers, new research now indicates that several other factors, such as alcohol consumption, ethnicity, genetic predisposition, and gender, oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer in men, can increase your risk for developing oral cancer. With these statistics, it is extremely important to schedule regular oral cancer screenings, which will take place at your regular dental exams.
At East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry, our entire team loves helping you develop optimal oral health as well as a functional and healthy smile. Our team uses forward thinking treatments and state-of-the-art technology, to ensure the most comfortable treatment for you. Our practice focuses on delivering personal care and developing individual treatment plans based on your unique needs. We emphasize preventive care and patient education because we want you to understand why it is important to keep your mouth healthy and how to do it. We are located at 5180 E. Main St., Suite A, Columbus, OH, 43213. Please call us today at 614-864-2561 to establish an appointment for an evaluation of the benefits of oral cancer screening for you.
SERVICES
Are You a Candidate for Oral Cancer?
Early signs of oral cancer were predominantly seen with smokers, but now are appearing in patients of all ages. Smoking is still the leading cause of oral cancer, but other criteria such as age, poor oral hygiene, genetics, and alcohol consumption can also cause you to develop this condition. You should get an oral cancer screening if you are experiencing one of the following symptoms:
- Swelling, eroded areas, or white or red patches inside your mouth.
- You are experiencing unexplained, excessive oral bleeding.
- You have increased sensitivity of the face, mouth, or neck.
- A difficulty swallowing, chewing, speaking, or moving your tongue.
- Sores in your mouth that do not heal.
- You have ear pain.
- A persistent pain in your mouth.
Screening for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer screening simply takes place during your routine visits. The screening is with visual and hands-on methods with our East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry team carefully examining your mouth and throat for any signs of lesions. If detected, we will take biopsies of the suspicious sore to determine if it is cancerous. If the biopsy returns positive, we will involve a local specialist, guiding the most effective treatment in the shortest time possible.
We do not treat oral cancer but do work closely with several trusted and experienced oncologists who can provide the correct treatment.
Preventing Oral Cancer
Although it is impossible to completely protect yourself from the risk of developing oral cancer, there are some precautions you can take to reduce your risk, including:
- Avoid the use of tobacco products and secondhand smoke as much as possible.
- Minimize your alcohol consumption.
- Practice good oral hygiene habits.
- Limit your exposure to the sun, especially your lips.
- Practice Monthly Self Examinations.
COMMON PERIODONTAL PROCEDURES
Oral Cancer Treatment Options
If the biopsy confirms that you do have oral cancer, there are several treatment options which East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry can introduce you to. Having the tumor removed is the first method for addressing oral cancer. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy is another common method for treating oral cancer, especially in situations where the affected area involves a significant amount of tissue. This approach will target the specific cancerous cells and protect the tissue that is healthy.
The best approach to treating your cancer is to develop a unique treatment plan with East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry and an oncologist that is aligned to your oral health history, current oral health issues, the severity of your case, and what type of post-treatment care will be the most effective in helping you recover and minimize your chances for issues developing in the future.
Monthly Self Evaluations
One of the best things you can do to detect oral cancer symptoms early is to practice simple monthly self-exams. These evaluations will create an awareness.
- If applicable, remove your dentures or other orthodontic appliances.
- Tilt your head back to examine the roof of your mouth.
- Feel inside your gums to see if there are any abnormalities or new growths.
- Use your index finger to fishhook and stretch out your cheeks. By doing this you can closely observe the surrounding teeth and gums to see if there are any abnormalities or new growths.
- Massage or prod your jaw and neck to see if there are any signs of enlarged glands or lumps.
In addition to this self-exam, be sure to contact East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry if you are experiencing or notice any of the following:
- Red and white patches in your mouth.
- Lumps or masses that suddenly develop in your neck.
- A chronic cough, hoarseness, or sore throat.
- Sores that are bleeding or are not healing.
- You are having trouble swallowing.
If you have noticed any suspicious changes to your oral health that you have not noticed before, it is critical that you schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.
WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY
Dr. Levy and the staff are wonderful, friendly, caring people. They make you feel calm during what can be a very stressful time. I had a deep cleaning & extraction yesterday and it was painless and quick. I was in and out in just a little over an hour. I received instructions for my aftercare along with the items needed to take care of my mouth. I feel wonderful today, no pain and eating normally. If you have anxiety about visiting the dentist, come see Dr. Levy and staff, they will put you at ease and take good care of you!
- Christi L
Everyone made me feel so welcomed even though I was nervous, Dr. Levy was great and informative made me feel very comfortable. I would recommend this office to anyone.
- Dee H.
The Cost of Your Oral Cancer Screening
The cost of your oral cancer screening is minimal as part of your regular exam but can vary depending on your individual needs and your treatment plan. We will discuss with you the cost of your treatment and each of your available payment options before we begin, so that you can make the best choice for your situation.
Affordable Payment Plans
Your smile is an invaluable asset, and we want to make it as easy as possible for you to receive the best dental care when you need it. East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry accepts most major credit cards and insurance plans. Our office staff is always available to help you with insurance claims and paperwork. We will work with your insurance provider to make sure that your coverage meets your needs and your budget.
A Mission Statement YOU can Trust for High Quality Periodontal Care
The entire team at East Columbus Periodontic and Implant Dentistry is focused on providing you with excellence in periodontal and implant care in a concerned, caring, gentle, friendly, and relaxed environment.
Our philosophy of care is multidisciplinary, to create partnerships with your general dentist as well as other dental specialists and provide you with the most comprehensive treatment planning and care that is available today.
Our team believes that communication is crucial for both you and us, both in written documentation and verbal communication. Value-based decisions are at the cornerstone of our personalized treatment for you. We are located at 5180 E. Main St., Suite A, Columbus, OH, 43213. Please call us today at 614-864-2561 to establish an appointment that works for your schedule.