Oral Cancer Screenings – Fort Worth, TX

Safeguard Your Health with Oral Cancer Screenings

Each year, approximately 54,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed, and many of them are during routine dental examinations. In fact, it is estimated that dental screenings catch upwards of 80 percent of all new oral cancers, improving the odds of survival from 50 percent to about 80 percent.
The great news is that your screening for this potentially life-threatening condition is included in your regular, preventive dental exam and cleaning. Here’s what you can expect during your evaluation, and signs of oral cancer to check for at home.

Why Choose Barr Family Dentistry for Oral Cancer Screenings?

  • Convenient Appointment Times Available
  • Dental Insurance Welcome & In-House Membership Available
  • Caring & Compassionate Dentist

Signs & Symptoms of Oral Cancer

While most of the lumps, bumps and sores that appear in your mouth from time to time are completely harmless, on occasion you may notice something out of the ordinary.  Please contact Dr. Barr if you observe any of the following symptoms:

  • Persistent sore or hoarse throat
  • Mouth ulcers
  • White or red patches in your mouth
  • Lumps around the face or neck that last longer than two weeks
  • Pain or difficulty swallowing
  • Ear pain
  • Numb spots around the mouth

Most oral cancers appear in the form of scaly patches on the sides of the tongue, floor of the mouth, or on the lower lip. If you do notice any of these warning signs ahead of your regular dental exam and cleaning, please call us immediately for an urgent appointment.

What Does Dr. Barr Look for During a Screening?

At your oral cancer screening, Dr. Bar will examine inside your mouth, your lips, and your neck. She will be searching for any of the symptoms mentioned above, as well as any asymmetries or irregularities that could indicate oral cancer.

What Should I Expect During My Screening?

Your oral cancer screening will include both a physical and visual examination and only takes a few minutes. Dr. Barr will take a closer look at your face, neck, head, mouth, gums, cheeks, throat, tongue, jawbone and lymph nodes for any indications of oral cancer or unexplained lumps and bumps.

Diagnosis

Regular oral cancer screenings are one of your best defenses against oral cancer, and one of the best ways to detect this condition early. Dr. Barr will perform a thorough physical and visual examination to look for lesions or other signs of oral cancer. If she notices anything suspicious, she will perform a brush test, which may be followed by a biopsy.

To learn more about how you can prevent or reduce your risk of developing oral cancer, or to schedule an oral cancer screening, please contact Barr Family Dentistry today.