Oral Cancer Screenings in Liberty, MO
Oral cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why routine screenings are such an important part of preventive dental care. During your regular dental visits, our team carefully evaluates your oral health and performs advanced oral cancer screenings to help identify potential concerns as early as possible.
By combining clinical expertise with modern screening technology, we are committed to protecting your overall health and giving you peace of mind through early detection. Contact us today to learn more and schedule.
What are common symptoms of oral cancer?
Common symptoms of oral cancer include persistent mouth sores that do not heal, red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or cheeks, unexplained bleeding, and ongoing mouth pain. Patients may also notice difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking, numbness in the mouth, or a lump in the neck or jaw that does not go away. If any of these symptoms arise, please contact our office to schedule a visit with our team.
How is oral cancer diagnosed?
Oral cancer is typically screened by performing a thorough visual and physical examination of the mouth, head, and neck. Our practice also uses advanced screening technology, including our OralID™ cancer screening device, which uses fluorescence to help detect abnormal tissue that may not be visible to the naked eye. If suspicious areas are found, we refer patients for further testing or biopsy.
Who is at risk of developing oral cancer?
Individuals at higher risk of developing oral cancer tend to include those who use tobacco products, drink alcohol frequently, or have prolonged sun exposure to the lips. People over the age of 40, those with a history of human papillomavirus (HPV), and individuals with poor oral health or a weakened immune system may also face increased risk. Changing lifestyle habits can help reduce risk, but there is no way to minimize it completely.
What are the benefits of an early oral cancer diagnosis?
We emphasize early oral cancer diagnosis because it significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Detecting oral cancer in its early stages often allows for less invasive treatment, reduced complications, and faster recovery. Early diagnosis can also help preserve speech, chewing function, and overall quality of life for our patients.
