Oral Cancer Screenings in Columbus OH
4th Street Dental Studio
Compassion · Care · Comfort
Prioritizing oral health & restoring your beautiful smile
When it comes to caring for the health and well-being of your mouth, most people think that practicing good oral hygiene is enough. It’s true that daily brushing and flossing are vital to keeping your teeth and gums in tip-top shape, but they aren’t enough on their own. Oral cancer affects roughly 53,000 people every year, even those who practice good oral hygiene. For this reason, it’s important to visit your dentist regularly for routine oral cancer screenings. While an oral cancer screening may sound scary, the compassionate team at 4th Street Dental Studio in Columbus are here to make it as stress-free and comfortable as possible. Here’s what you should know before scheduling your appointment with Dr. Wood.
Overview of Oral Cancer Screening
At 4th Street Dental Studio, Dr. Wood will perform your oral cancer screening on all new patients and during routine dental exams by examining your mouth for signs of cancer or precancerous indicators. In most cases, this process is quick and painless. The purpose of these screenings is to identify oral cancer as early as possible when it’s easier to treat and cure.
During the oral cancer screening, Dr. Wood will visually inspect your tongue, cheeks, and gum tissue for unusual signs, such inflammation, red or white spots, and mouth sores. He may also feel the inside of your mouth, neck, and throat for lumps or other abnormalities. If he does notice anything out of the ordinary, he will schedule a follow-up visit to see if and how it has changed over time, as well as a refer you to a specialist to have a biopsy procedure performed to test the tissue for cancer cells.
Symptoms That Could Indicate a Person Has Oral Cancer
There are a number of symptoms that could indicate that a person has oral cancer, including:
- Lumps or bumps inside their mouth
- An ulcer-like lesion that doesn’t heal within 14-21 days
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Persistent sore throat
- Loose teeth
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness in an area of the mouth
While these symptoms don’t guarantee that a person has oral cancer, it is important to make an appointment with Dr. Wood right away if you notice one or more of these concerns. Early diagnosis is the key to preventing and fighting oral cancer as smoothly as possible.
Need an Oral Cancer Screening?
Where Do Most Oral Cancers Occur?
Most oral cancers affect the person’s tongue, including the base, sides, and underneath it. While oral cancer could affect anyone, regardless of their age or lifestyle choices, some factors can make a person more susceptible to developing oral cancer, including:
- Tobacco Use
- Alcohol Consumption
- HPV
- Sun Exposure
- Age (most people who develop it are over 40)
Why Should You Take Advantage of Oral Cancer Screenings?
Having your mouth examined twice a year for signs of oral cancer may not seem necessary, but it can make a big difference to how effective and quick your treatment is if oral cancer is detected. Recognizing and treating the early signs of oral cancer not only makes it easier for the experienced dental team at 4th Street Dental Studio to control, but will also increase your chances of surviving the disease.
How Much Do Oral Cancer Screenings Cost?
The cost of your oral cancer screening will depend on your dental insurance plan. Most insurance policies cover routine oral cancer screenings every six months. For more information on what your particular dental insurance policy covers, please contact our office.
4th Street Dental Studio is Here for You
At 4th Street Dental Studio, Dr. Wood and his trusted team are committed to helping your mouth stay healthy and strong for a lifetime. If it’s been a while since you’ve been to the dentist for a routine oral cancer screening, don’t put it off for another day. Caring for the well-being of your smile is an important part of living a healthy, happy life for years to come. Call us today to schedule an oral cancer screening at our convenient office in Columbus!