Oral Cancer Screening in Voorhees & Mt. Laurel, NJ

A patient’s chances of developing oral cancer increase after they turn 50, but it is possible for younger patients to develop it. It is also highly curable when it is caught and treated early, which makes routine dental exams all the more important. At Growing Smiles, we want to ensure that all of our patients maintain positive oral health not just in terms of their teeth and gums, but when it comes to oral cancer as well. To schedule an oral cancer screening for yourself or your child, feel free to give our office a call or send us a message.

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What happens during an oral cancer screening?

Oral cancer screenings are simple to perform and not invasive in any way. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay and gum disease, but they will also look at your lips, the inside of your cheeks, the roof of your mouth, and under your tongue. We may also ask patients to open their mouths as wide as possible so we can get a good look at the back of their throat as well.They can also involve gently pressing the bottom of the mouth to check for any unusual lumps or bumps.

What are the signs of oral cancer?

In its early stages, the patient may not notice any symptoms at all. However, if you or your child notices any of these symptoms, we recommend scheduling an appointment with our team so we can assess the situation.

• Pain in the mouth, face, or ear
• Constant mouth sores or red or white patches
• A lump in the mouth or neck
• Swelling in the mouth or jaw
• Difficulty swallowing or moving tongue

Are oral cancer screenings necessary for children?

The risk of a child developing oral cancer is considerably lower than the chances of an adult developing oral cancer. Part of the reason for this is because drinking alcohol, smoking, and years of frequent sun exposure are among the main risk factors for oral cancer. However, it never hurts to exercise caution, especially when it comes to cancer. Dentists are trained to identify many issues that affect the teeth, gums, mouth, and face, so we always recommend that patients visit our practice to be seen by our team at least twice per year.

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