Oral Cancer Screenings – Pasadena, TX
An Early Diagnosis Can Be Life-Saving
Oral cancer kills more people nationwide than either cervical or skin (melanoma) cancer, and only half of the people diagnosed will survive more than five years. One American dies every hour from oral cancer. The most common risk factors are tobacco use, frequent, high-quantity alcohol consumption, constant sunlight exposure, habitual cheek or lip biting, or poorly fitting dentures. Although most oral cancers are found in people who use tobacco and/or drink alcohol excessively, 25% of oral cancers occur in people who have no risk factors at all. Call our dental office to schedule an appointment for oral cancer screenings in Pasadena, TX.
Why Choose Pasadena Family Dentistry for Oral Cancer Screenings?
- Patient-Focused, Personalized Care From Our Dentists
- Friendly, Long-Term Dental Team Members
- State-of-the-Art Technology for Screening
Catching Cancer as Early as Possible
Your dentist could very well be your number one soldier in the fight against oral cancer. Statistics show that in about 10% percent of oral cancer patients, dentists notice a problem area even before the patient notices. During a regular dental checkup, your dentist will examine your entire mouth, searching for a flat, painless, white or red spot, or a small sore. Other signs of oral cancer can include:
- A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal.
- A color change of the oral tissues.
- A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust, or small, eroded area.
- Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips.
How We Screen for Oral Cancer
We use the revolutionary VELscope Oral Cancer Screening technology to diagnose oral cancer more accurately. Learn more about VELscope here.
Two follow-up tests can determine if a trouble spot is cancerous. A brush biopsy is a painless test performed on areas that look harmless or do not have a clear cause. This test can detect potentially dangerous cells in the early stages of the disease. A scalpel biopsy, which requires local anesthesia, is usually performed on suspicious areas.
Remember to schedule regular checkups for everyone in your family. Two visits per year are recommended for general care. If, between visits, you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, call our dental office immediately. Together, you and the Pasadena Family Dentistry team can fight and win the battle against oral cancer.