Oral Cancer Screenings
Do you have a history of smoking, alcohol abuse, or not using enough sun protection? If so, you may have a higher risk of developing oral cancer during your lifetime. Ask our dentist in Grand Rapids, MI, about getting oral cancer screenings during your routine checkups. Your next oral cancer screening has the potential to save your life.
Benefits of Oral Cancer Screenings
The earlier we’re able to detect cancer, the sooner you’re able to seek treatment and increase your chance of survival. Oral cancer screenings are easy to fit into your routine checkups, which makes them convenient to schedule. Getting screened by our Grand Rapids dentist can also help give you peace of mind, especially if you have risk factors for oral cancer.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Schedule an appointment with our office right away if you notice any of the following oral cancer symptoms.
Signs of oral cancer include:
- Sores or lumps in or around your mouth
- Red or white lesions in your mouth or lips
- Unusual swelling that makes wearing dentures uncomfortable
- Numbness, tenderness, or pain
- Earaches without any hearing loss
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Persistent sore throat
An oral cancer screening consists of a visual and physical exam. During the visual exam, our dentist will look for any abnormalities that require closer inspection. For the physical exam, Dr. Olszewski will feel for any suspicious masses or nodules that don’t belong. He’ll also check for any immobile tissue and note areas of discomfort.
Schedule an Oral Cancer Screening
Dr. Ronald Olszewski is proud to serve as a dentist in Grand Rapids, MI. To schedule your next checkup and oral cancer screening, please call Always a Smile Dental at (616) 949-1700. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.