When you think of a general dentistry checkup, the first things that come to mind are mostly likely x-rays, a cleaning, an exam, and some questions and answers regarding your hygiene routine. Another important part of your routine dental visit is oral cancer screening, a special exam that checks for signs of cancerous cells within the oral cavity. At Hampton Roads Center for Cosmetic Dentistry in Virginia Beach, VA, Dr. Carol Morgan and her team perform routine oral cancer screenings using the latest technology in the industry.
The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer is an aggressive disease that is most easily and effectively treated when the condition is diagnosed early. Because many of the signs of oral cancer are not easily detected by patients at home, oral cancer screenings are performed at routine checkups approximately twice per year. Though a visit to our office is the only definitive way to diagnose a real problem, there are some more conspicuous signs you can watch for between appointments.
- Red or white patches or lesions anywhere in the mouth
- Unexplained tenderness, numbness, tingling, or any other odd sensation
- Unusual bleeding
- Recurring ulcers
- Bumps or lumps on the tongue, gums, cheeks, lips, or other soft tissues
- Difficulty or pain when chewing
- Persistent hoarseness and/or sore throat
If you notice any of these issues, it is important that you schedule a visit with Dr. Morgan as soon as possible. We will work with you to reach an accurate diagnosis and begin the process of developing a treatment plan. Our team is here to help, serving as your trusted partner in a journey toward lifelong oral health and overall wellness.
Protect Your Smile with Dr. Morgan
At Hampton Roads Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Morgan provides patients of all ages with the comprehensive care they need to enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for a lifetime. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment and find out how our patient-centric approach and cutting-edge technology can benefit you and your family. Our office happily welcomes patients from Virginia Beach, VA and the surrounding areas, including Suffolk, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and more.