Oral Cancer Screening in Grand Rapids

At Dentists on Eastcastle in Grand Rapids, MI, we’re not only dedicated to your smile but also to your overall wellness. Our holistic approach to dental care includes an oral cancer screening as part of your regular exam. Like many cancers, oral cancer can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.

Our skilled team at Dentists on Eastcastle has the tools to identify early signs and symptoms of oral cancer and pre-cancerous conditions. While these symptoms could be caused by less serious issues, it's crucial to visit our Grand Rapids office to rule out oral cancer. Common symptoms of oral cancer include:

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

At Dentists on Eastcastle, our team is trained to perform a simple, quick screening that examines your entire oral cavity, not just your teeth, to detect potential cancerous or precancerous conditions. Besides a visual examination, we will feel the tissue in your mouth and throat to detect abnormalities. If an area of concern arises, we may perform a brush test to collect cells for lab analysis. If the test results come back atypical or positive, we may recommend a biopsy.

Beyond oral cancer screenings during your checkup at our Grand Rapids, MI office, there are several ways to help prevent oral cancer:

• Avoid all tobacco products and consume alcohol in moderation.
• Maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
• Limit sun exposure and always use UV-A/B-blocking, sun-protective lotions on your skin and lips.

During your next appointment at Dentists on Eastcastle, be sure to ask about an oral cancer exam. Early detection improves the chances of successful treatment.