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

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What patients say about us

Here's some kind words from a few of our happy patients.

It was my first time here, and I was blew away by the staff, these are the nicest people ever, I had a warm welcome upon entering and the hospitality did not stop. What a great staff. If you need a dentist I highly recommend you to give this business a try. My hygienist was the best, and I felt really comfortable with her. I had went to a dentist up the road first and I wasn’t treated the same upon my entry to their establishment so I remembered talking to a ladie that worked at this dental office sometime back, I drove down the street until I saw this office and I’m so glad I did. Thanks for a great dental experience.

Brenda S.

I went to this office for the first time today & felt like they were glad to help me. I felt at ease & was impressed by everyone! Michelle & Brittney were great & Dr Jancy made me feel confident my needs would be met. I will go here for all my dental needs & highly recommended it!

Phyllis V.

My experience has been great! I get extremely nervous when I go to the dentist. They make sure I’m comfortable and always make me feel more relaxed. Everyone on the staff that I’ve encountered have been super nice!

Felicia B.

Front desk is always very kind and helpful. Michele is great, best and most thorough cleanings I’ve ever received. Had to get a crown today, Dr Jancy and Jessica were absolutely terrific. Most painless and comfortable experience at any dentist office I’ve ever been to. Highly recommend

Joe S.

I absolutely love Michelle. If you are looking for a dental hygienist, pick her! Dr Parkerson is very thorough and I am pleased with the abutment and crown she placed. She was very caring and made sure I was not in any pain during the procedure. They are the best!

Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral Cancer Screenings