Oral cancer screenings available with a Lubbock, TX area dentist
The general public is aware of some of the more well-known cancers, such as breast cancer and lymphoma. However, many are unaware that oral cancer is also a risk that many adults face. Oral and pharyngeal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the upper throat or inside of the mouth. Low awareness of this form of cancer is concerning, especially considering it kills one person every hour. Those diagnosed with this cancer will have a 60% chance of living longer than five years. Dr. Cole Sutak of Lone Star Smiles is a dentist who urges patients to have regular oral cancer screenings when they visit their dentist. With early detection and treatment, patients have a much better chance of surviving the cancer.
What does oral cancer look like?
Oral cancer often looks like a white or red patch in the mouth. It can present as an ulcer or a sore, a lump, or tenderness. Many patients who have oral cancer may also experience other symptoms such as:
- Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Tenderness or lumps in the mouth
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lumps or sores on the lips or throat
What is an oral cancer screening?
Like we screen for other cancers such as breast cancer and colon cancer, screenings for oral cancer can also be done regularly. Dr. Cole Sutak performs an oral cancer screening with each routine dental visit for patients in his practice. He evaluates the mouth and throat to look for signs that may be indicative of a problem.
Is oral cancer curable?
With early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, many patients can overcome oral cancer. However, late-stage cancer can be more challenging to treat, especially if it has already spread.
Book your oral cancer screening today
Whether you have never had one or are looking to see a dentist who integrates the screenings into routine evaluations, now is the time to connect with Lone Star Smiles of Lubbock, TX. His facility offers regular screenings to spot and diagnose oral cancer in its earliest stages for a more reliable outcome after treatment.
