Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer is the only type of cancer that is increasing in the United States. Your McPherson dentist, Dr. Stacy Wince is in a unique position (inside your mouth) to detect oral cancer in the early stages before it becomes deadly. We are always on the lookout for changes and abnormalities that may be potential signs of oral cancer, and you should be on the lookout at home, too.
Signs of oral cancer:
(can be found on the lips, cheeks, tongue, gums, throat, or any surface of the mouth)
- Swelling, thickening, lumps, rough spots, crusting, or erosion
- Velvety white, red, or speckled patches
- Unexplained bleeding
- Numbness or loss of feeling
- Pain or tenderness
- Persistent sores
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue
- Hoarseness, chronic sore throat, change in voice
- Ear pain
Risk factors for developing oral cancer:
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Alcohol consumption
- Family history of cancer
- Excessive sun exposure
- HPV
If you’ve noticed any of the signs and symptoms, or fall into any of the high-risk categories, you should see your trusted general dentist in McPherson for an oral cancer screening today. It might just save your life.