Oral Cancer Screening in Saskatoon
If you think you’re at risk for oral cancer, get screened today at Willowgreen Dental and learn more about your oral health. We are equipped with modern technology to perform oral cancer screenings and help diagnose potential issues. Our dentists will also give you helpful information and advice on the next steps.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks or roof of the mouth. It usually occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control and form a tumor. Early detection is crucial because oral cancer can spread quickly and become life-threatening if left untreated.
It’s important to remember that the best way to diagnose oral cancer is through regular screenings. As with any type of cancer, the earlier it is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment. In addition, oral cancer symptoms are similar to other mouth conditions, which is why it’s essential to see a dentist or a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
Warning Signs of Oral and Mouth Cancers
- Persistent mouth sores that do not heal within two weeks
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- A lump or thickening in the cheek, tongue, or neck
- Hoarseness or change in voice
- Numbness in the mouth or face
- Irritation or rough patches in the mouth
- Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, tonsils, or lining of the mouth
If you experience any of these symptoms for an extended period, make an appointment with your dentist or doctor immediately.
Who Is at Risk of Oral Cancer?
Anyone can develop oral cancer, but certain factors increase the risk, including:
Tobacco Use
Smoking cigarettes, cigars or pipes and using smokeless tobacco products put you at higher risk.
Heavy Alcohol Consumption
Consuming too much alcohol can irritate the cells in your mouth and make them more prone to cancer.
HPV Infection
Some strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) are linked to oral cancer.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Not taking good care of your teeth and gums can lead to irritation and inflammation that may increase the risk of oral cancer.
Who Can Benefit From Regular Oral Cancer Screening?
- Tobacco users
- People who consume too much alcohol
- Previous oral cancer diagnosis
- Excessive sun exposure
- HPV infection
- Age factor
- Diet
- Genetic syndromes
What Does an Oral Cancer Screening Involve?
Our oral cancer screening at Willowgreen Dental in Saskatoon is simple and painless.
During your appointment, you can expect the following procedures:
Physical Exam
Our dentists will first conduct a thorough physical exam of your mouth, looking for any signs of abnormality or changes in your oral tissues. They will check for lumps, sores, discoloration and any other potential indicators of oral cancer.
Additional Tests
If abnormalities are detected, our dentists may recommend further testing to understand your oral health better. This may include:
- Oral cavity and pharyngeal cancer staging with imaging tests such as CT scan or MRI
- Brush biopsy
- Fluorescence image test
Schedule an Appointment With Willowgreen Dental for Your Oral Screening Today!
Early screening helps identify concerns before they become serious. Schedule an appointment with Willowgreen Dental in Saskatoon and take control of your oral health today. Our dentists are trained and experienced in detecting early signs of oral cancer and can provide you with the necessary information to maintain a healthy mouth.
Remember, early detection is key!
Get In Touch With Us
Phone Number
Hours of Operation
Monday 7:30am – 4:30pm
Tuesday 7:30am – 4:30pm
Wednesday 7:30am – 4:30pm
Thursday 9:00am - 5:30pm
Friday 7:30am – 3:00pm