Oral Cancer Screening Milwaukee WI

Oral Cancer Screening

At Lake Park Dental, we are not only dedicated to your smile, we're also dedicated to your overall wellness.

We take a holistic approach to your dental care, which includes an oral cancer screening as a part of your regular exam. Like many kinds of cancer, oral cancer can be life-threatening if it is not diagnosed and treated early.

We have the skills and tools to ensure that early signs and symptoms of oral cancer and pre-cancerous conditions are identified. While these symptoms may be caused by other, less serious problems, it is very important to visit our office to rule out the possibility of oral cancer.

Common symptoms of oral cancer include:

• Red or white spots or sores anywhere in the oral cavity
• A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
• A lump, thickening or rough spot
• Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue

We will examine your oral cavity as a whole, and not just your teeth, to detect cancerous and precancerous conditions. Besides a visual examination of your mouth, we will also feel the tissue of your mouth and throat to detect any abnormalities. If we find an area of concern, we may perform a simple test, such as a brush test, which collects cells from a suspicious lesion in the mouth to be sent to a laboratory for analysis. If this test comes back atypical or positive, we may recommend a biopsy.

Aside from receiving an oral cancer screening during your checkup at our office, you can prevent oral cancer by avoiding all tobacco products and only drink alcohol in moderation, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet, and limiting your exposure to the sun and always wearing UV-A/B-blocking, sun-protective lotions.

Click here for information about the Identafi oral cancer screening device we use in our office.

Next time you're at our office, ask us about an oral exam.

Oral Cancer Screening in Milwaukee, WI

At Lake Park Dental, we believe in the power of early detection. Our oral cancer screening services are designed to identify potential signs of oral cancer in its earliest stages when it's most treatable. Dr. Meggie Graham and our team are committed to providing thorough screenings as part of our comprehensive approach to your oral health.

The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, and voice box. Regular screenings are crucial because:

Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment
Oral cancer often doesn't cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages
Risk factors like tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and HPV are becoming more common
Survival rates for oral cancer are much higher when caught early

Our Oral Cancer Screening Services

Visual and Tactile Examination

During your regular dental checkup, we perform a comprehensive screening:

Visual inspection of your lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, and mouth floor
Palpation of the neck and jaw area to check for abnormalities
Examination of the soft palate and back of the throat

Advanced Screening Technology

We use the Identafi oral cancer screening device:

Uses multi-spectral technology to detect abnormal tissue
Can identify suspicious areas not visible to the naked eye
Quick, painless, and non-invasive

Patient Education

We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge:

Discussion of oral cancer risk factors
Guidance on self-examination techniques
Information on lifestyle changes to reduce risk

Who Should Get Screened?

We recommend oral cancer screenings for all adult patients, especially those with risk factors such as:

Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
Heavy alcohol consumption
Previous oral cancer diagnosis
Significant sun exposure (risk for lip cancer)
HPV infection
Age 40 and over

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Between screenings, be aware of these potential signs of oral cancer:

Persistent sores or irritations that don't heal within 14 days
Red or white patches in the mouth
Pain, tenderness, or numbness in mouth or lips
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving your tongue or jaw
A change in the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth
Lump or thickening in your cheek
Chronic sore throat or hoarseness

The Screening Process

Medical history review and risk assessment
Visual and tactile examination of oral cavity and throat
Use of Identafi device for additional screening
Discussion of findings and any necessary follow-up
Advice on reducing risk factors and performing self-checks

Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today

Early detection is key in the fight against oral cancer. Schedule a screening with Dr. Meggie Graham at Lake Park Dental. Our team is ready to provide you with thorough, compassionate care to protect your oral and overall health.

Call us at (414) 963-9440 or book your appointment online today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screening

How often should I get an oral cancer screening?

‍We recommend an oral cancer screening at least once a year as part of your regular dental checkup. Those with higher risk factors may need more frequent screenings.

Is the screening painful?

‍No, oral cancer screening is a quick and painless process. The visual and tactile examination and the use of the Identafi device are non-invasive and comfortable.

What happens if something suspicious is found during the screening?

‍If we detect any areas of concern, we may recommend a follow-up examination or a biopsy. Remember, most abnormalities are not cancerous, but early detection is crucial.

Can young people get oral cancer?

‍While oral cancer is more common in older adults, it can affect people of any age. The rising prevalence of HPV-related oral cancers has led to an increase in cases among younger individuals.

How can I reduce my risk of oral cancer?

‍Quit tobacco use, limit alcohol consumption, practice safe sex to prevent HPV infection, use UV protection on your lips, maintain good oral hygiene, and eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Oral Cancer Screening