Oral Cancer Screenings – Barnegat, NJ
Proactive Screenings Could Save Your Life
The signs of oral cancer can look relatively benign to the untrained eye. You may mistake a cancerous patch of oral tissue for a common ulcer, for example. Unfortunately, oral cancer becomes more lethal the more it progresses, making it dangerous for symptoms to go unnoticed for too long. That’s why it’s so important to get regular screenings from a professional like your dentist here in Barnegat. Being proactive could very well save your life!
Why Choose Nu Dental of Barnegat for Oral Cancer Screenings?
- VELscope Technology Makes Diagnosis More Accurate
- In-Network with Many Dental Insurance Providers
- Convenient Appointment Availability
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms, it’s best to schedule a visit so we can check on your oral health:
- Lip or mouth sores that don’t heal after two weeks
- White, red, or thickened areas of tissue in or near the mouth
- Bumps along the inner cheek, gums, tongue, jaw, or neck
- Difficulties while chewing or swallowing
- Tongue numbness
What Does a Dentist Look for During an Oral Cancer Screening?
During your oral cancer screening in Barnegat, your dentist will look for:
- Persistent lumps, bumps, and discolored patches of skin
- Bleeding ulcers
- Lesions and tissue that may look like a rash or hives
- Changes in normal oral function (like chewing or swallowing)
- Firm masses along the throat and jaw
Keep in mind that at this stage, your dentist will be screening for abnormal tissue that may or may not be cancerous. If they find something concerning, that doesn’t automatically mean you have oral cancer, just that the symptom is worth investigating.
What Can I Expect During My Screening?
At Nu Dental of Barnegat, we’re fortunate to have advanced technology that improves the detection and diagnosis of oral cancer. Along with performing a thorough visual exam and gently palpating your throat, you can expect your dentist to use our intraoral camera and VELscope systems to aid in their investigation. Rest assured, these devices are minimally invasive and should be quite comfortable.
Depending on what your dentist finds, they may tell you that your symptoms are relatively benign, recommend a follow-up appointment to monitor the issue further, or refer you to a specialist who can perform more tests.