Oral Cancer Screenings in Murfreesboro, TN
Oral cancer can form anywhere in the mouth—the tongue, cheeks, and gums. It can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hyperthermia therapy if it’s caught early. If left untreated, oral cancer can cause other complications such as the spread of cancer to other organs and parts of the body.
Regular oral cancer screenings are the best way to keep a check on your oral health to reduce your chances of developing oral cancer or catch it in its early stages. At Ricafort Dental Group, our dentist near you recommends that our patients undergo regular oral cancer screenings in Murfreesboro, TN as part of their oral health routine.
What You Should Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
Our skilled dentist in Murfreesboro, TN will ask you some questions regarding your health history and will proceed to examine your mouth for any signs of oral cancer such as:
- Mouth sores
- Red or white patches on the mouth or tongue
- Thickening of the gums or lump inside the mouth lining
- Jaw swelling
- Bleeding or pain in the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Difficulty moving the tongue or jaw
- Loose teeth without any causes
The results of your oral cancer screening will determine the next steps. If Dr. Erwin M. Ricafort has cause to think that there is something worth getting checked out, a biopsy will be ordered. An oral cancer screening at our office cannot be used to diagnose oral cancer. Only a biopsy can diagnose or rule out oral cancer. If your biopsy results come back positive for oral cancer cells, Dr. Erwin M. Ricafort will collaborate with an oncologist (cancer specialist) to get you the treatment you need ASAP!
What are the Risk Factors for Developing Oral Cancer?
It is recommended that patients of all ages incorporate oral cancer screenings as part of their oral health routine. You may have a higher risk of developing oral cancer if you:
- Have a family history of cancer
- Have had cancer of the head or neck
- Smoke or chew tobacco
- Have been diagnosed with human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Consume excessive alcohol
Stay on top of your oral health! Call Ricafort Dental Group in Murfreesboro, TN for more information or to schedule your oral cancer screening with Dr. Erwin M. Ricafort today.