Oral Cancer Screening in Allentown, PA
At Kearns Family Dental, we believe that early detection is key to successfully treating oral cancer. That’s why we include oral cancer screenings as part of our routine checkups for all patients. Oral cancer screenings help identify signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth, allowing for early intervention and treatment.
By incorporating advanced screening techniques, our team ensures you receive thorough and accurate assessments during every visit.
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless exam that involves checking your mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues for any signs of abnormalities. The goal is to identify changes or lesions that could indicate oral cancer. The screening includes visual inspections of the mouth as well as physical palpation of areas like the neck and lymph nodes.
Who Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screenings are recommended for everyone, but certain factors increase the risk of developing oral cancer, including:
- Tobacco Use: Smokers or users of chewing tobacco have a higher risk of oral cancer.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol, especially when combined with tobacco, raises the risk of oral cancer.
- HPV Infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been linked to certain types of oral cancers.
- Age: The risk of oral cancer increases with age, particularly for individuals over 50.
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can raise the risk of lip cancer.
Even if you don’t have any of these risk factors, regular screenings are vital for early detection and prevention.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
Your oral cancer screening at Kearns Family Dental is quick and non-invasive. Here’s what you can expect:
- Visual Examination: Dr. Kearns will inspect your lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, the roof and floor of your mouth, and the back of your throat for any abnormalities, such as red or white patches, sores, or lumps.
- Physical Examination: The dentist will gently feel your neck, jaw, and lymph nodes for any unusual masses or swellings.
If anything abnormal is detected, we will recommend further testing or a biopsy to determine whether the changes are cancerous
Early Detection Can Save Lives
Oral cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Regular oral cancer screenings are an important part of maintaining your overall health. At Kearns Family Dental, we are committed to offering preventive care to help you stay healthy and catch potential issues before they become serious.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening in Allentown, PA Today
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—schedule your oral cancer screening with Kearns Family Dental today. Early detection can make all the difference. Call us at (610) 432-7565 or visit us at 216 North 17th Street, Allentown, PA 18104 to make your appointment.
