When you visit the dentist for a routine checkup, you might not realize just how comprehensive that exam really is. Beyond checking for cavities and gum disease, your dental team is also performing a vital service that could save your life: an oral cancer screening. At Plainsboro Dental Services, Dr. Priti Dagli, DDS, FICOI, and her team make this critical examination a standard part of every preventive care appointment.
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless examination where your dentist looks for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. During this screening, Dr. Dagli carefully examines your lips, tongue, gums, throat, and the inside of your cheeks for any unusual tissue changes, lesions, or abnormalities that warrant further investigation.
The entire process takes just a few minutes and is completely non-invasive. Think of it as an extra layer of protection during your regular dental visit; one that could make all the difference in catching problems early when they’re most treatable.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
Early detection is absolutely crucial when it comes to oral cancer. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, when detected early, the survival rate for oral cancer is significantly higher. Unfortunately, many cases go unnoticed until they’ve reached advanced stages, simply because people don’t recognize the warning signs or skip their regular dental visits.
That’s why making oral cancer detection a routine part of your dental care is so important. Regular screenings increase the likelihood of catching abnormalities before they become serious health threats.
Common Oral Cancer Signs and Symptoms
While your dentist is trained to spot potential problems, it’s also helpful to know what oral cancer signs and symptoms to watch for between appointments:
- Persistent sores or ulcers in your mouth that don’t heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches on your gums, tongue, tonsils, or mouth lining
- Lumps or thickening of the tissue in your mouth or neck
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue
- Chronic sore throat or feeling that something is caught in your throat
- Numbness in your mouth or tongue
- Unexplained bleeding in your mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait for your next scheduled appointment! Contact our office at 609-716-7100 right away.
What to Expect During Your Screening
During your mouth cancer screening at our Plainsboro office, Dr. Dagli will thoroughly examine all the soft tissues in your mouth and throat. She’ll look for any discolorations, lumps, or tissue changes. She may also feel the tissues of your mouth and under your jaw to check for unusual masses or nodules.
If anything suspicious is found, Dr. Dagli will discuss the findings with you and may recommend a follow-up examination or refer you to a specialist for a biopsy. Remember, finding an abnormality doesn’t automatically mean cancer! Many conditions can cause similar changes in mouth tissue.
Protecting Your Oral Health
Regular dental visits are your first line of defense against oral cancer. At Plainsboro Dental Services, we recommend scheduling checkups every six months, which allows Dr. Dagli to monitor any changes in your oral tissues over time.
To learn more about our comprehensive oral cancer screening services, or to schedule your next preventive care appointment, please call us at 609-716-7100. Your oral health is too important to leave to chance. Let us help you maintain a healthy, cancer-free smile.