Oral Cancer Screenings in Kansas City

Oral cancer screenings are a part of every comprehensive dental examination.  Early detection is important in any cancer diagnosis, so examination of soft tissues of the mouth, tongue, and upper throat are necessary. 

If suspicious areas are noted, we will refer our patients to the appropriate medical specialist. Risk factors include:  tobacco; alcohol use; habitual biting of cheeks, lip and tongue; and poor fitting dental appliances. 

Warning signs: sores or ulceration in the mouth that do not heal within a few weeks, unusual sensations in the bony structures of the upper and lower jaw, any unusual swelling or pain in the oral cavity.

Why it's important

The goal of oral cancer screening is to detect cancer or precancerous lesions in the mouth.  Early detection is very important in diagnosing and treating any type of cancer and provides the greatest opportunity for a successful outcome.

Factors that can increase the risk of oral cancer include:

• Tobacco use including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, etc.

• Heavy alcohol use

• Previous oral cancer diagnosis

• History of significant sun exposure which can increase the risk of lip cancer