Oral Cancer Screenings

Comprehensive Oral Cancer Screening in Wichita, KS

Identifying oral cancer in its earliest stages is the best way to ensure that you receive the most effective treatment. Schedule your oral cancer screenings today by calling 316-684-4921.

When visiting the dentist, most people focus on improving the health and appearance of their teeth and gums. However, a routine dental exam is a vital service. Dentists use the opportunity to inspect their patient’s oral cavity for signs of oral cancer. 

The caring dentists and support staff at Blyholder Family Dentistry are compassionate about the oral health of every patient. We offer several services, including oral cancer screening in Wichita, KS, and take every procedure seriously. In addition, our team has more than 75 years of combined dentistry experience, so we know how to use our trained eyes to detect the disease when it is most treatable. 

Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer is a severe health concern. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, people die from the disease every hour of every day in the United States. 

Though the condition is treatable, it is best to begin treatment while the cancer is in its earliest stages. This is because the survival rate can reach 90% with early detection and intervention. Otherwise, cancerous cells can migrate to other body parts, making treatment less effective. 

The Oral Screening Process at Blyholder Family Dentistry

Dr. Blyholder and the dental hygienists at Blyholder Family Dentistry provide comprehensive oral cancer screenings. We recommend screenings for all new patients and annual exams for current patients. Cancer can develop at any time, so maintaining a screening schedule helps us identify signs of oral abnormalities and mouth changes. 

We will use our oral expertise to closely examine your lips, throat, mouth, gums, and tongue during the screening. Oral cancer can affect soft and hard tissues inside your mouth. An oral cancer screening is a noninvasive evaluation, but we may recommend a biopsy if we detect something unusual with the naked eye. 

Signs of Oral Cancer

Some of the most common signs of oral cancer are:

  • Red or white lesion or rough spot in your mouth
  • Problems moving the jaw and tongue to speak, chew, and swallow
  • Chronic mouth wounds that do not heal
  • Lumps on the lips or in the throat
  • Neck or throat swelling
  • Persistent sore throat
  • White or red patches on the lining of the mouth, gums, or tongue
  • Mouth bleeding with no cause

Contributing Factors to Oral Cancer Development

Anyone can develop oral cancer at any time, including healthy individuals. However, well-known risk factors could make you more susceptible to having the condition at some point in your life. Contributing factors to oral cancer development include:

  • Using any type of tobacco product regularly 
  • Eating unhealthy foods
  • Drinking alcoholic beverages often 
  • Being male
  • Having gastro-esophageal reflux disease
  • Excessive sunlight and ultraviolet radiation exposure

Scheduling an oral cancer screening in Wichita, KS, with Blyholder Family Dentistry will help you maintain your general health and well-being. Our skilled dentists understand how to examine the oral cavity to detect easily overlooked abnormalities. Contact our staff today at 316-684-4921 to book your appointment. 

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