Cancer in any form is a serious health concern, and finding it early offers the best chance of treatment. Oral or mouth cancer is often undetected until it has begun to spread to other areas of the body, increasing the risk of death. Oral cancer screening is one of the best ways to identify signs of mouth cancer early, when it is at its most treatable. As part our general dentistry options, our dental team at Johns Creek Dental Studio offers effective oral cancer screening, which we can perform during your checkups at our clinic in Alpharetta, GA.

An estimated 10,000 people die from oral cancer every year in the U.S. While it is not the most prolific type of cancer, it does respond well to treatment when detected and treated in the early stages. The chance of survival increases drastically when oral cancer is identified early to begin treatment before it spreads to other areas.

The problem with oral cancer is that there are often few or no signs that it is present. By the time that symptoms appear, it may be too late. However, some possible symptoms include:

• Mouth sores that do not heal within two weeks
• Lumps or bumps on the oral tissues
• Sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Red or white patches on the oral tissues

The changes in the oral tissues when cancer is present can be detected, but often, not by the naked eye. With oral screening, specialized tools can be used to inspect the oral cavity to detect any tissue changes that can be the first signs of oral cancer.

Identify Mouth Cancer Early

Oral cancer screening is non-invasive and can be performed in a few minutes during your routine dental exams. This simple screening can be life-saving and identify mouth cancer in the earliest stages when completed on a routine basis. Detection of oral cancer can improve your chances of effective treatment to prolong your life.

At your next checkup, cleaning or treatment at Johns Creek Dental Studio, ask about oral cancer screening. It can be performed during any visit and could save your life. Contact our office in Alpharetta, GA, to schedule your next appointment, and make sure to ask for an oral cancer screening.