Oral Cancer Screenings in Totowa, NJ
Nobody wants to hear that they may have oral cancer. Although it can be life-threatening, oral cancer is far easier to treat the earlier it is caught. That’s why Dental Arts of Totowa is proud to include oral cancer screenings as part of our comprehensive dental care. This quick, painless exam is one of the most important things we do to protect the health of our patients in Totowa, NJ.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer typically shows up as white or red patches or sores inside the mouth. Lesions may appear on the tongue, the floor of the mouth, the cheeks, gums, lips, or throat. Contact us if you notice any of the following for more than two weeks:
- A sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal
- White or red patches in the mouth
- A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing or chewing
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Numbness of the tongue or lips
- Swelling in the face or neck, or a persistent sore throat or hoarseness
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop oral cancer, but risk increases with tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, excessive sun exposure to the lips, and age. Because many people have no obvious risk factors, routine screening is recommended for all adults.
What Happens During a Screening?
During your routine cleaning and exam, Dr. Zoya Mitelberg visually inspects your lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, palate, and throat, and gently feels your jaw and neck for lumps or abnormalities. The screening takes only a few minutes and causes no discomfort. If we find an area of concern, we’ll monitor it closely or refer you for a biopsy or further evaluation.
Protecting Your Overall Health
Oral cancer screenings are just one way your dental visits support your total health. Regular checkups also help detect gum disease, decay, and other problems early. New patients can learn more on our Your First Visit page.
Oral Cancer Screening FAQs
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
Most adults should be screened at each routine dental exam, typically every six months.
Does an oral cancer screening hurt?
No. The screening is a quick visual and physical exam that is completely painless.
What does oral cancer look like?
It often appears as a white or red patch, a sore that won’t heal, or a lump in the mouth, tongue, or neck.
What are the biggest risk factors for oral cancer?
Tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, HPV infection, sun exposure to the lips, and older age increase your risk.
What happens if you find something suspicious?
We may monitor the area or refer you for a biopsy or further evaluation to determine whether it is cancerous.
Is oral cancer screening part of my regular checkup?
Yes. We include an oral cancer screening as part of your comprehensive dental exam.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening
Early detection saves lives. Call Dental Arts of Totowa at (973) 942-3233 or request an appointment online.