According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 42,440 men and women in America will be diagnosed with oral cancer in 2014. Of these, only 62.7 percent are expected to survive for more than five years. Research tells us that the successful treatment of oral cancer is contingent upon early detection and diagnosis. At JL Dental in Arnold, MO, Drs. Jonathan and Laura Mears provide families with all of the preventive and general dentistry services they need to maintain optimal oral health, including routine oral cancer screening.
Protect Yourself with Oral Cancer Screening
Because oral cancer is such an aggressive disease, early treatment is pivotal to success in fighting it. At your routine general dentistry checkup at JL Dental, our team will thoroughly evaluate the gums and other soft tissues in your mouth, utilizing proven oral cancer screening technology to detect problems that aren’t yet visible to the naked eye. While an oral cancer screening is the only definitive way to spot and diagnose a potentially cancerous lesion, there are some signs that you can keep in mind between your visits to our office. These include:
· White or red patches anywhere in the mouth
· Unexplained bleeding
· A persistent cough or hoarseness
· Numbness or tingling in the mouth or on the lips
· Sores in the mouth that recur or simply do not go away
· Lumps or thickening of the skin of the cheek lining
· A change in the way dentures fit
· Difficulty swallowing
· Soreness when moving the tongue
· Pain in the teeth or jaw bone
· Persistent halitosis (bad breath)
If you notice any of these symptoms or suspect their presence in a loved one, call us as soon as possible to arrange an appointment with our doctors and friendly, experienced staff. We’ll work with you from day one to develop a treatment plan that is customized to meet your individual needs.
Schedule Your Visit Today
Even if you are completely free of these symptoms, oral cancer screening is an integral component of your routine dental checkup. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Jonathan Mears or Dr. Laura Mears, and discover the difference our patient-centered approach and gentle touch can make in your next checkup. Our family-friendly dental practice in Arnold, MO, proudly serves patients from throughout nearby neighborhoods as well, including those located in Barnhart, Oakville, Imperial, and more.