Thorough Oral Cancer Screenings for Patients in Sun City West, AZ
Early detection and treatment are key when it comes to surviving and recovering from oral cancer. At Burns Dentistry, we always check for signs of cancer during your regular dental check-up, but we also offer oral cancer screening appointments if you notice signs or symptoms between your biannual cleanings. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so visit our Sun City West, Arizona, office right away if you are experiencing potential oral cancer symptoms.
When to Seek an Oral Cancer Screening
Contact us right away to see an oral cancer screening dentist if you notice symptoms like:
- White or rough patches in your mouth
- Swelling, bumps, lumps, or any other new asymmetries in your mouth
- Sores that won’t heal
- Unexplained changes in the position of your teeth
It’s also a good idea to undergo more frequent oral cancer screenings if you have any of the risk factors for the disease, which include:
- A history of oral cancer
- Tobacco use of any kind
- Heavy alcohol use
- A history of significant sun exposure
- Previous infection with human papillomavirus (HPV)
What To Expect
In order to conduct a thorough exam, we’ll ask you to remove any oral appliances, such as dentures. Your dental professional will then gently and carefully inspect every aspect of your mouth, including:
- Your gums
- Your tongue
- Your palate
- The back of your throat
- All the soft tissues within your mouth
We’ll look for abnormalities of any kind, and if we find anything, we’ll refer you to a specialist for further testing and follow-up care.
Schedule Your Screening Today
If you have any of the risk factors for oral cancer or you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, contact Burns Dentistry today to schedule your oral cancer screening at our conveniently located Sun City West office.