Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer kills more people nationwide than either cervical or skin (melanoma) cancer.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer kills more people nationwide than either cervical or skin (melanoma) cancer, and only half of patients diagnosed will survive more than five years. One American dies every hour from oral cancer. The most common risk factors are tobacco use, frequent high quantity alcohol consumption, constant sunlight exposure, habitual cheek or lip biting, or poorly fitting dentures. Although most oral cancers are found in people who use tobacco and/or drink alcohol excessively, 25% of oral cancers occur in people who have no risk factors at all.

Your dentist could very well be your number one soldier in the fight against oral cancer. Statistics show that in about 10% percent of patients, dentists notice a problem area even before the patient notices. During a regular dental checkup, your dentist will examine your entire mouth, searching for a flat, painless white or red spot or a small sore.

A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal.
A color change of the oral tissues.
A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust, or small, eroded area.
Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips.

We use the revolutionary VELscope Oral Cancer Screening technology to more accurately diagnose oral cancer. Learn more about VELscope here.

Two follow-up tests can determine if a trouble spot is cancerous. A brush biopsy is a painless test performed on areas that look harmless or do not have a clear cause. This test can detect potentially dangerous cells in the early stages of the disease. A scalpel biopsy, which requires local anesthesia, is usually performed on suspicious areas.

Remember to schedule regular checkups for everyone in your family. Two visits per year are recommended for general care. If, between visits, you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, call our office immediately. Together you and the Chattanooga Dental Arts team can fight and win the battle against oral cancer.

Please call 423-698-3607

Or contact us via email form below