Oral Cancer Screening in Cromwell, CT
Nobody wants to hear they may have oral cancer, but early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes. At Unicorn Dental Group, we include oral cancer screenings as part of your routine visit to help protect your health.
Request an AppointmentOral cancer often shows up as white or red patches or lesions inside the mouth, sometimes on the tongue or the floor of the mouth. Many patients also experience difficulty swallowing, unexplained bleeding, or swelling in the face or neck. Because symptoms can be subtle, regular cleanings and screenings are one of the best tools we have for catching problems early.
How We Screen for Oral Cancer
Since these lesions can resemble a simple burn or irritation inside the mouth, we typically monitor suspicious areas first to see if they resolve on their own. If they don’t, we perform a biopsy to reach a proper diagnosis. This may involve sedation or general anesthesia, allowing us to remove a small sample of tissue for a pathologist to examine under a microscope.
Supporting You Through the Process
We understand a possible oral cancer diagnosis can be a scary and stressful experience. Our team is here to answer your questions and support you every step of the way, from screening through diagnosis and treatment planning.
Treatment Options
If results come back positive, surgery is often the first option when the lesion can be localized and removed. In other cases, we may recommend a combination of radiation and chemotherapy, coordinated with the appropriate specialists.
Regular screenings are a simple but powerful part of protecting your overall health. If you have any questions about oral cancer screening or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today at (860) 635-3993.
How often should I get an oral cancer screening?
We typically perform oral cancer screenings as part of your routine dental exam, so scheduling regular cleanings every six months helps ensure early detection.
What are the early signs of oral cancer?
Early signs can include white or red patches, sores that don’t heal, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained bleeding or swelling in the mouth, face, or neck.
Is an oral cancer screening painful?
No, the initial screening is a simple visual and physical exam. A biopsy, if needed, may involve sedation to keep you comfortable.
What happens if a screening finds something suspicious?
We may monitor the area first, and if it doesn’t resolve, we’ll perform a biopsy to get a clear diagnosis and determine next steps.
Is oral cancer treatable if caught early?
Yes, oral cancer is significantly easier to treat when caught early, which is why routine screenings are so important.