Oral cancer screening: Potentially life-changing (and life-saving) service
Like other cancers, oral cancer has a high “cure rate” when identified and treated early. So, Desert Ridge Periodontics & Implant Dentistry takes the early detection of pre-cancers and cancers of the mouth and throat very seriously. Our specialist expertise, combined with investments in advanced CBCT imaging, enables us to accurately and promptly identify these conditions that can have a devastating effect on your health and life.
How do you identify cancers early?
The foundation for early detection is an oral cancer screening performed at our office in Scottsdale, Arizona. During your screening, we look for potential signs of pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions by both sight and by touch. The screening is typically performed during your regular dental “checkup.” This is the step in your comprehensive examination that involves:
Assessing your facial features for drooping and asymmetry
Feeling for lumps or thickened tissue inside of your mouth, cheeks, lips, and on the palate and floor of the mouth
Feel your tongue and evaluate how it moves
Gently touching the neck to identify lumps and swelling
Looking for light or dark patches and discoloration that stand out from the appearance of the surrounding tissue
Should I be concerned about certain changes in my mouth?
Yes. There are some changes that should be evaluated sooner rather than later. For instance, it’s important to schedule an appointment if a sore fails to heal and keeps reopening. You should also contact us if it feels like something is “stuck” in your throat when you eat, or if you have problems swallowing and chewing food. Tell us about any unexplained hoarseness or changes in speech that you may be experiencing, too.
Can oral cancers be prevented?
Certainly! Desert Ridge Periodontics & Implant Dentistry always takes a preventive approach to all conditions. There are known risk factors for oral cancer. We work with you to identify any risks that you may have. The two most notable risk factors are smoking and tobacco products, as well as heavy alcohol consumption. When combined, the effects of tobacco & alcohol are multiplied, which creates a much more significant risk than smoking or drinking alone. It’s also essential to apply sunscreen to all sun-exposed areas, including the lips. This tissue is a common site for cancers associated with harmful UV radiation from the sun and tanning.
How often do I need to be screened?
Screenings are typically incorporated into your regular checkups. However, if you are at risk of developing these cancers, more frequent screenings may be an essential part of your health and wellness routine. If it’s been longer than six months since you last saw a dentist or you have experienced any symptoms that seem out of the ordinary, schedule your visit today. Proudly serving Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Glendale, Peoria, Mesa, and beyond, our team in Scottsdale, AZ, welcomes your call and can be reached at (602) 932-6297
At Desert Ridge Periodontics, patients benefit from the expertise of Dr. Dan Indech, DDS, a board-certified periodontist with more than 30 years of experience in periodontal care, dental implants, and laser surgery. Trained at leading institutions in Canada, the U.S., and Sweden, he has placed over 10,000 implants and is nationally recognized for his work in Implantology and LANAP® laser periodontal therapy.
Dr. Indech and the team deliver compassionate, evidence-based periodontal and implant care focused on long-term oral health and personalized treatment.
