Protecting Your Health With Early Detection
Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, and other areas of the mouth, and early detection can save lives—one American dies from it every hour. At Maegan Elam, DDS & Associates, we prioritize prevention and thorough oral cancer screenings to help protect your overall health and maintain a healthy, confident smile.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
Our oral cancer screenings are quick, painless, and can be done during your regular dental visit.
- Visual Examination – We carefully inspect the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat for any irregularities such as sores, red or white patches, or lumps.
- Palpation – Gentle pressure is applied to detect unusual tissue changes or swelling.
- Velscope Technology – Advanced light technology helps identify abnormalities that may not be visible to the naked eye.
The screening takes only a few minutes but can play a crucial role in protecting your health.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch for
While many of these symptoms may be caused by minor issues, it’s important to consult your dentist if they last longer than two weeks.
- Persistent Sores or Ulcers – Any sore that doesn’t heal on its own.
- Red or White Patches – Unusual coloring inside the mouth.
- Lumps or Thickened Areas – Noticeable changes in the cheeks or gums.
- Hoarseness or Sore Throat – Ongoing changes in your voice or throat discomfort.
- Difficulty Swallowing or Moving the Tongue – Trouble with normal mouth movements.
- Numbness in the Lips or Mouth – Unexplained loss of sensation.
These signs don’t always indicate cancer, but they should never be ignored.
Benefits of Early Detection
Routine oral cancer screenings offer the critical advantage of catching cancer in its earliest stages. Early detection can:
- Significantly improve survival rates
- Allow for less invasive treatment options
- Reduce the risk of cancer spreading
- Provide peace of mind for those at higher risk
Screenings are quick, painless, and non-invasive—but they can save lives.
Schedule Your Screening Today
Early detection can save lives. No matter your risk level, oral cancer screening should be part of your routine dental care. Call us at (817) 283-2871, to schedule your screening today and take a simple, three-minute step toward protecting your health.
