Oral Cancer Screening Houston

Oral cancer can affect just about anyone. However, there are certain factors, both controllable and uncontrollable, that can increase your risk. Risk factors for oral cancer include:
• Family history of oral cancer – Your risk is much greater if you have a close blood relative who has also suffered oral cancer.
• Certain strains of HPV – There are numerous strains of the human papillomavirus, or HPV. A handful of these strains have been linked to oral cancer, with HPV16 having the strongest link.
• Lifestyle habits – Smoking has an incredibly strong connection to the development of oral cancer. Excessive alcohol consumption can also play a substantial role.
• Age – Older adults are at greater risk than younger individuals. Additionally, men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women. Men over the age of 55 have the highest risk.

The earliest oral cancer symptoms are often very difficult to detect. For this reason, regular dental exams are crucial. We are experienced in detecting the earliest oral cancer symptoms, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment. The earlier treatment is provided, the greater your likelihood of making a full recovery. During your dental exams, we check your mouth for signs of any abnormalities.

Oral Cancer symptoms includes:
• Sores that do not heal, even though they have been present for longer than 2 weeks.
• Red or white patches on your intraoral tissues.
• Unusual growths.
• Changes in your bite.
• Numbness in your chin or jaw.
• You find it difficult to chew, speak, or swallow.

Your regular dental exams are only one part of diagnosing oral cancer. If we find anything suspicious during your routine exam, we then recommend you for a closer examination. During this exam, we focus on the abnormality we have found, looking it over carefully. Digital X-rays or a CT scan may also be taken.

Diagnosing oral cancer also often involves a soft tissue biopsy. This is a procedure that requires us to take a small sample of tissue from the abnormality so that we can examine the cells underneath a microscope. With a soft tissue biopsy, we can determine the presence of cancerous and precancerous cells. If we do find these cells present, we are then able to help you get the treatment you need right away.

Oral cancer screenings are performed at every dental exam. To detect the presence of oral cancer, and any other oral health issues, in the earliest stages, and receive prompt treatment, it is essential that you have your mouth examined every six months. Call Edge Dental at (281) 940-8940 for more information on oral cancer screenings and to schedule your next dental exam today.