Oral Cancer Screening in Vancouver, BC
Twice-yearly dental checkups involve not only examining patients for decay, cavities, and periodontal disease, but are also an opportunity to check for oral cancer. Visiting our qualified dentists near you is one of the first lines of defense against oral cancer.
Dentists can detect early signs of cancerous and precancerous tissues that could indicate the onset of oral cancer.
Oral Cancer Facts
There are several types of oral cancers, including lip, tongue, gums, hard and soft palate, tonsil, and throat. The key to successful oral cancer treatment depends on early detection and timely intervention.
Dental exams play a crucial role in the early identification of oral cancer. Oral cancer screenings in Vancouver, BC, take only a few minutes to complete, and the procedure is pain-free and non-invasive.
Oral Cancer Screenings: What the Dentist Looks For
We will record your medical history during oral cancer screenings at Enhance Dental Centre, including lifestyle and family history information.
As we examine the gums, the inside of the cheeks, face, neck, and jaw, our trained dentist in Vancouver, BC, watches for the following signs:
- Velvety or speckled red and white patches in the mouth
- Lumps, raised bumps, and eroded areas in the lips and gums
- Persistent mouth sores that bleed easily and do not heal
- Difficulty moving the tongue
If we find anything suspicious or abnormal, our dentists at Enhance Dental Centre will recommend a specialist for further testing or send the tissue for a biopsy. Reliable oral cancer screenings by our dentist near you can help you obtain oral cancer treatment and even save your life.
Risks Associated with Oral Cancer
Although any patient may develop symptoms of oral cancer, some groups may be at a higher risk. High-risk groups include patients who:
- Have a family history of oral cancer
- Are heavy smokers or use other forms of tobacco
- Experience excessive exposure to harsh sunlight
It’s best not to wait until symptoms show up. Please contact our trained family dentist to book oral cancer screenings in Vancouver, BC.
Has your child ever been to the dentist? If not, it’s time to schedule an appointment. Our dentists in Vancouver, BC, offer pediatric dental services. We accept patients of all ages and can treat a variety of dental concerns.
If you want to make an appointment at Enhance Dental Centre, call our dentists near you. We are here to help you and your family keep your teeth and gums healthy for life.
