Oral Cancer Screening in Northfield, IL

At North Dental, we prioritize your overall health as much as your oral health. Regular oral cancer screenings are an essential part of preventive dental care, and early detection can save lives. Our Northfield, IL practice is committed to providing thorough screenings during your routine dental exams to identify any signs of oral cancer at an early stage. Led by Dr. Phillip Moorad, our experienced dental team uses the latest technology to detect potential abnormalities and ensure your health is always our top priority.

Located in Northfield, IL, we proudly serve patients from nearby communities like Winnetka, Glenview, and Wilmette. Whether you’re a new patient or have been visiting us for years, we include oral cancer screenings as part of your regular dental exam and cleaning to safeguard your health.

Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are Important

Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and throat. Unfortunately, the early stages of oral cancer often present without noticeable symptoms, making it difficult to detect without a professional screening. By incorporating regular oral cancer screenings into your routine dental care, we increase the chances of identifying any suspicious areas before they progress into a more serious condition.

The American Cancer Society recommends that adults receive an oral cancer screening at least once a year, especially for individuals with risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, or a family history of cancer. At North Dental, we take a proactive approach by conducting comprehensive oral cancer exams during every routine visit, ensuring early detection and prompt treatment if necessary.

What to Expect During Your Oral Cancer Screening

During your oral cancer screening at North Dental, our team will thoroughly examine your mouth, throat, and surrounding areas for any signs of abnormal tissue, lesions, or sores that could indicate the presence of cancerous or precancerous cells.

• Visual Examination: We begin by visually inspecting the inside of your mouth, including your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and throat. Our goal is to identify any discoloration, sores, lumps, or other unusual changes in the tissue. We also check the roof and floor of your mouth, as well as the back of your throat.
• Palpation: In addition to a visual exam, we will gently feel (palpate) the tissues of your mouth, jaw, and neck to detect any hard lumps or irregularities that may not be visible. This manual examination helps us detect abnormalities that could indicate underlying problems.
• Advanced Screening Technology: Depending on your risk factors and initial findings, we may use advanced diagnostic tools to enhance the accuracy of our screenings. These tools can help us detect changes in the tissues that may not be visible to the naked eye..

Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?

While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk of developing the disease. Understanding these risk factors can help you take proactive steps to protect your health:

• Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or using smokeless tobacco significantly increases the risk of oral cancer.
• Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use is another major risk factor for oral cancer, especially when combined with tobacco use.
• HPV Infection: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to certain types of oral cancers, particularly those that affect the throat and back of the mouth.
• Age: The risk of oral cancer increases with age, especially after the age of 45.
• Sun Exposure: Excessive sun exposure can increase the risk of cancer on the lips.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

While oral cancer screenings are essential for catching early signs of the disease, it’s also important to be aware of potential symptoms between visits. Contact our office immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent sores or ulcers in the mouth that do not heal
• Lumps or thickening in the cheek or neck area
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the tongue or jaw
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
• Numbness in the tongue or other areas of the mouth
• Persistent sore throat or feeling that something is caught in your throat
• Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they persist for more than two weeks, it’s important to schedule an appointment for an evaluation.

Integrating Oral Cancer Screening into Your Preventive Care

At North Dental, we believe in the power of preventive care. During every routine visit, we combine your oral cancer screening with a comprehensive dental exam, professional cleaning, and other preventive services, such as fluoride treatments or sealants. This holistic approach ensures that every aspect of your oral health is addressed, giving you peace of mind about your overall well-being.