Oral Cancer Screenings Little Rock

Protect Oral & Overall Health with Oral Cancer Screenings

A test tube that says oral cancer screening

Each year, approximately 54,000 new cases of oral cancer are detected, and nearly 80 percent of those are discovered by a dentist during regular oral cancer screenings. In fact, these diagnoses are estimated to improve survival odds from about 50 percent to nearly 80 percent!

Oral cancer screenings in Little Rock are painless and take just a few minutes at your regular dental exam every six months. Here’s what you can expect from this evaluation, and how you can keep an eye out for symptoms of oral cancer at home.

Why Choose Little Rock Family Dental Care for Oral Cancer Screenings

  • Can be Performed at Your Regular Dental Exam and Cleaning
  • Fast and Painless
  • Early Detection Saves Lives

Signs & Symptoms of Oral Cancer

A woman looking at her lip in the mirror

Although in most cases, lumps, bumps and sores that develop in your mouth are harmless, oral cancer can be potentially fatal. Thus, if you notice anything out of the ordinary, it is important to mention it to your dentist as soon as possible. Symptoms to look out for include:

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

In most cases, oral cancer appears in the form of scaly patches on the sides of the tongue, floor of the mouth, or lower lip. Should you observe any of these symptoms during your at-home oral hygiene routine, please call us as soon as possible for an urgent appointment.

What Do Dentists Look for During Oral Cancer Screenings?

A dentist performing an oral cancer screening

During your oral cancer screening, your dentist will examine the insides of your mouth, your lips, and your neck. They will be looking for any of the symptoms mentioned above, as well as any other asymmetries and irregularities that might indicate the presence of oral cancer.

How Will Your Own Screening Work?

A man’s mouth being examined by a dentist

During your oral cancer screening, you will be given both visual and physical examination. The entire evaluation takes just a few minutes and will be performed during your regular preventive dental exam and cleaning. Your dentist will closely look at your face, neck, head, mouth, gums, cheek, tongue, throat, and along your jawbone and lymph nodes for any indications of oral cancer, including any unexplained lumps and bumps.