Oral Cancer Screening: Peace of Mind Takes Just Minutes
Oral cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms, making early detection critical. Oral cancer screenings help identify early warning signs before the condition advances. An oral cancer screening at Admire Dental in Haltom City, TX is quick and non-invasive, yet it can potentially save a life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Shiv Kohli and take a proactive step toward optimal wellness.
What are the early signs of oral cancer?
Oral cancer kills at least one American every hour, every day. While this accounts for a small percentage of all cancer deaths, it should be a concern because most cases are not discovered until it’s too late.
Identifying early signs of oral cancer can make a significant difference. See your dentist if you notice any of the following signs.
- A mouth sore that doesn’t heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches
- Voice changes
- Feeling as if something is stuck in the throat
- Unexplained numbness or bleeding in the mouth
- Unexpected weight loss
- A persistent sore throat
- Changes in how your denture or aligners fit
Oral cancer is thought to be an older person’s disease, and that’s still the case for patients aged over 40. However, many cases are now being reported in younger demographics, primarily due to the spread of human papillomavirus (HPV-16). Because oral cancer doesn’t discriminate, everyone should be screened at least twice annually. Our office will recommend a personalized timeline tailored to your risk profile.
What can I expect from oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer exam is part of your regular check-up, so there’s no need to schedule a separate appointment. The screening includes a visual inspection of your lips, cheeks, tongue, palate, and tonsils to check for unusual patches or lesions. The doctor also palpates your gums, neck, and throat to detect any unusual lumps, masses, or swellings.
If we notice a suspicious lump or lesion, we’ll schedule a follow-up visit to keep a close eye on it. If it doesn’t resolve, we may recommend a biopsy for a precise diagnosis. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of the suspicious tissue and having it examined in a pathology lab. This step helps confirm what’s going on and guides your treatment plan.
Why does early detection matter?
When oral cancer is detected early, treatment is less aggressive and more effective. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer is over 80% when detected and treated early. Unfortunately, that number drops to around 30–40% when it’s found after it has spread (metastasized) to other parts of the body.
The challenge is that oral cancer often starts quietly. It may appear as a small sore, white patch, or lump that doesn’t cause pain. Many people ignore these signs. By the time pain appears, the disease may already be in an advanced stage.
Routine screenings play a key role. We are trained to spot early changes in the mouth that patients may miss. A quick screening can catch problems before they become serious.
Do you need oral cancer screening in Haltom City, TX?
Skipping oral cancer screenings means the disease can only be discovered when it’s too late. Has it been over a few months since your last oral cancer exam? Be proactive about your oral health with oral cancer screenings at Admire Dental. Call (682) 564-9544 and schedule your appointment today! Let’s protect your health with this simple preventive step.
