Oral cancer screenings are a key part of preventive dental care at River Square Family Dentistry. These routine screenings help us detect oral cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage. The best part? We use the VelScope oral cancer screening system, which allows us to detect abnormalities with incredible precision.
If it’s been a while since you had an oral cancer exam in Rochester Hills, Michigan, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gehan Girgis today. The screening takes about five minutes and can potentially save your life!
What are the warning signs of oral cancer?
Oral cancer can occur in any part of the mouth, but it’s common in the tongue, lips, cheeks, gums, palate, and throat. Like many cancers, it may start quietly. In its early stages, it often causes little to no pain. That’s why regular screenings are so important.
When symptoms occur, they include:
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Voice changes or persistent hoarseness
- A lump or thickened tissue
- A persistent mouth sore or sore throat that doesn’t improve within two weeks
- Unexplained numbness or pain in the mouth
- Painful chewing or swallowing
- A change in how your dentures or aligners fit
It’s important to pay attention to changes in your mouth. If something looks or feels off, trust your instincts and schedule a medical evaluation to rule out anything serious. Without a professional exam, many people don’t realize something is wrong until the disease has progressed.
