Early detection saves lives–and when it comes to oral cancer, regular screenings are one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health. At Silver Creek Family Dentistry in Butte, MT, we incorporate thorough oral cancer screenings into your routine dental exams, ensuring that any abnormalities are caught and evaluated as early as possible.
By detecting mouth cancer early, we can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and long-term health outcomes.
Angela WellesJulia is excellent. She always shares current research findings related to oral hygiene. It’s encouraging to know that your hygienist is truly invested in your total health. Dr.Daphne was great today! I’m glad she chose Butte.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are Important
Oral cancer can develop on the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, throat, or gums. In many cases, it presents no obvious symptoms in the early stages, which makes routine screenings critical for early identification.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, close to 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year. Early-stage oral cancers are much easier to treat, while cancers detected later can be more aggressive and difficult to manage.
At Silver Creek Family Dentistry, we believe in being proactive. That is why we perform comprehensive screenings for all patients as part of our preventive care approach.
What We Look for During an Oral Cancer Screening
During your oral cancer screening, our trained team examines your mouth, throat, and neck for signs of abnormalities, such as:
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Persistent mouth sores or ulcers
- Unexplained lumps, bumps, or swellings
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
- Numbness in the tongue or mouth
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together
We also palpate the tissues of your neck, jaw, and face to check for any unusual masses or asymmetries.
How Oral Cancer Screening Works
An oral cancer screening is fast, painless, and non-invasive. During your exam, we will:
- Visually inspect your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth
- Gently feel around the jaw, neck, and lymph nodes for any unusual growths or swelling
- Use advanced light or detection tools if needed to highlight abnormal tissues
- Discuss any findings immediately and recommend the next steps if necessary
If we detect an area of concern, we may recommend a biopsy or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors can increase your risk, including:
- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Excessive sun exposure to the lips
- A history of oral cancer or other cancers
- Poor diet lacking in fruits and vegetables
Even individuals without known risk factors should undergo regular screenings to ensure early detection.
How Often Should You Have an Oral Cancer Screening?
We recommend an oral cancer screening at least once a year during your regular dental checkup. However, patients with higher risk factors may benefit from more frequent evaluations. Our team will tailor your preventive care schedule based on your needs and medical history.
Regular screenings are a simple yet powerful tool for maintaining your overall health.
Prioritize Your Health with Oral Cancer Screening in Butte, MT
At Silver Creek Family Dentistry, your well-being is our top priority. Our comprehensive oral cancer screenings are designed to detect mouth cancer early and give you peace of mind about your health.
Schedule your next dental visit with our Butte team today and take an important step toward protecting your smile–and your life.
