Oral Cancer Screening

Oral Cancer
Screening

Oral Cancer Screening Services at Northland Smiles in Calgary

The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening Services

At Northland Smiles we are committed to helping our patients maintain their oral health through a variety of preventive services, including oral cancer screening services.

Oral cancer screenings are an essential part of routine dental care, as they help with the early detection of oral cancer and other abnormalities in the oral cavity. Early identification of oral cancers can significantly improve treatment outcomes, which is why we prioritize this service for all our patients.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer refers to the growth of cancer cells in and around the mouth, which includes the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat. This type of cancer can be life-threatening if not detected early, but with regular oral cancer screenings, we can identify precancerous lesions or abnormal tissue before they develop into more serious conditions.

Our oral cancer screening services focus on checking for early signs of lip cancer, mouth sores, and other suspicious changes in the tissues inside the mouth. This is an important step we add to your routine dental check-ups.

What to Expect During Oral Cancer Screening

Physical & Visual Examination

During your oral cancer screening, our experienced dentist will carefully examine your mouth for any abnormal tissues or areas of concern.

We use both visual and tactile methods to assess the oral cavity, looking for any signs of colour change, white patches, or tender areas. We also inspect the tongue, lips, and cheek lining for any unusual changes or abnormal tissue growth.

Blue Light Technology

Additionally, we may use a safe blue light to enhance the visibility of precancerous lesions and areas of healthy tissue that may not be visible to the naked eye.

This advanced technology helps us identify potential issues in their early stage, allowing for timely treatment.

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancers. These include:

Tobacco use, such as smoking or chewing tobacco
Excessive alcohol consumption
Prolonged sun exposure, especially to the lips
A diet high in processed or unhealthy foods
A history of mouth sores or other oral conditions

Patients who engage in tobacco use are particularly at risk, as it increases the chances of developing lip cancer and other oral cancers. During your oral exam, we will assess your risk and provide guidance on how to reduce it.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of oral cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Many oral cancers do not present obvious symptoms in their early stages, which makes regular oral cancer screenings vital. Identifying cancer cells or precancerous lesions early allows for less invasive treatments and significantly better outcomes.

At Northland Smiles, we recommend routine oral cancer screenings as part of your regular dental checkups. If we notice any suspicious areas during your screening, we may recommend a follow-up visit or further testing to ensure any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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How to Perform a Self-Exam

In addition to receiving professional oral cancer screening services at Northland Smiles, we encourage our patients to perform regular self exams at home.

By inspecting your mouth, lips, and tongue for skin changes, lumps, or white patches, you can help with early detection and alert us to any concerns between visits. Pay special attention to any persistent sores, tender areas, or colour changes that last longer than two weeks.

Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening at Northland Smiles

At Northland Smiles, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive oral cancer screening services to help protect our patients’ health. Regular oral cancer screenings are a critical part of preventive care, allowing us to detect abnormal tissues or cancer cells before they become a serious problem. We are proud to offer this service to our Calgary patients, ensuring that their oral health remains a top priority.

If you’re due for a cancer screening or have concerns about your oral health, contact Northland Smiles in Calgary today to schedule an oral cancer screening appointment. Early detection can make all the difference in maintaining a healthy smile and overall well-being.