The dental community is the first line of defense in the early detection of oral cancer. At DeSoto Smile Studio, we prioritize this screening as a core component of our commitment to your long-term wellness. The goal of an oral cancer screening is to detect mouth cancer or precancerous lesions that may lead to mouth cancer at an early stage—when these issues are easiest to treat and most likely to be cured. When found at the early stages of development, oral cancers have an 80% to 90% survival rate. Because of this, early detection is imperative for our patients in DeSoto, TX.
Understanding The Risk Factors Of Oral Cancer
While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain lifestyle choices and environmental factors can significantly increase your risk. Understanding these factors is the first step in a proactive approach to your health. During your visit, we discuss your history with transparency and respect to ensure you are well-informed.
Factors that can increase the risk of oral cancer include:
- Tobacco use of any kind: This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff, among others.
- Heavy alcohol use: Frequent alcohol consumption can irritate the soft tissues of the mouth and throat.
- Previous oral cancer diagnosis: A history of the disease increases the likelihood of recurrence.
- Significant sun exposure: This specifically increases the risk of developing lip cancer.
Symptoms & Early Warning Signs
Oral cancer can often develop without causing significant pain in its initial stages, which is why professional screenings are so vital. Between visits, it is important to be aware of changes in your oral tissues. If you notice any of the following symptoms persisting for more than two weeks, we encourage you to contact our office in DeSoto, TX, for an evaluation.
Common symptoms of oral cancer include:
- White and/or red patches inside the mouth or on the tongue.
- Abnormal lumps or thickening of the skin or the lining of the mouth.
- A chronic sore throat that does not resolve.
- Persistent hoarseness or changes in your voice.
- Difficulty or discomfort when chewing or swallowing.
Our Approach To Life-Saving Care
At DeSoto Smile Studio, we believe that dentistry should be personal and focused on the whole person, not just a set of teeth. When you choose our practice, your oral cancer screening is handled with meticulous attention to detail. Dr. Alex Shafiey, who holds advanced fellowships in the ICOI and the AGD, utilizes a gentle and thorough examination process to inspect the tongue, throat, lips, and gums. We also perform a digital and visual examination of the lymph nodes in the face and neck to look for any abnormalities.
We understand that the thought of a cancer screening can be intimidating. Our goal is to create a calm, welcoming environment where you feel at ease. We prioritize clear communication, explaining exactly what we are looking for so that there are no surprises. This non-transactional approach ensures that you feel supported and respected throughout the diagnostic process.
Advanced Technology & Total
Body Wellness
We wish more patients understood how closely oral health is connected to overall health. Oral cancer is just one example of how a small issue in the mouth can impact your long-term vitality. To provide the most accurate assessments, we utilize modern technology, including our AI Clinical Intelligence Platform and high-definition intraoral cameras. These tools allow us to capture detailed images of your soft tissues, which can be compared over time to monitor any changes.
By maintaining regular check-ups every six months, we can manage your oral health and catch potential concerns before they grow into more complicated issues. We also encourage you to ask about ways you can reduce your risk, such as smoking cessation and lifestyle adjustments. Our promise is to help you achieve a confident, lasting smile through personalized care and guidance you can trust. Safeguard your health with a comprehensive screening in DeSoto, TX. Call our office or book online today.