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Oral Cancer Screening In Yuma - Early Detection For Better Outcomes

A Few Minutes Today Can Make All The Difference

Oral cancer screening is a vital part of your dental exam that could save your life. At Arizona Avenue Dentistry in Yuma, we include a thorough oral cancer screening with every routine checkup.

This quick, painless examination takes just minutes but can detect abnormalities early when treatment is most successful. Early detection dramatically improves survival rates. When oral cancer is found in its earliest stages, the five-year survival rate is 84% or higher. That's why we're committed to screening every patient at every visit.

If it's been more than six months since your last dental checkup, request an appointment online or call us at (928) 782-3685 to schedule your screening today.

 

What Is Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is a careful visual and physical examination of your mouth, throat and neck. During your regular dental checkup, Dr. Grady or one of our experienced hygienists will:

  • Examine your lips, gums, tongue and inner cheeks for unusual tissue changes
  • Check the roof and floor of your mouth for abnormalities
  • Inspect your throat and tonsil area
  • Feel your neck and jaw for lumps or irregularities
  • Look for red or white patches, sores or thickened tissue

The entire screening takes just a few minutes and is completely painless. If we notice anything concerning, we'll discuss it with you immediately and recommend the next steps.

 

Why Early Detection Matters

Oral cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Unfortunately, many cases aren't detected until later stages because early symptoms can be subtle or painless. That's what makes regular screenings so important.

When oral cancer is found early:

  • Treatment is less invasive and more successful
  • Recovery time is typically shorter
  • Survival rates are significantly higher
  • Quality of life is better preserved

Regular dental visits with oral cancer screening give you the best chance of catching any problems early when they're easiest to treat.

 

Risk Factors For Oral Cancer

While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors increase your risk:

  • Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes or chewing tobacco significantly increases risk
  • Heavy alcohol consumption: Frequent, heavy drinking raises your risk
  • HPV infection: Certain strains of human papillomavirus are linked to oral cancers
  • Sun exposure: Excessive sun to the lips increases lip cancer risk
  • Age: Risk increases after age 55
  • Previous oral cancer: Having had oral cancer before increases the chance it may return

Warning Signs To Watch For

Between dental visits, watch for these potential warning signs and call us right away if you notice:

  • Sores or ulcers that don't heal within two weeks
  • Red or white patches in your mouth
  • Lumps, thickening or rough spots
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing or moving your jaw
  • Persistent sore throat or feeling that something is caught in your throat
  • Numbness in your mouth or tongue
  • Persistent pain in your mouth, throat, or ear

Most of these symptoms aren't cancer, but it's always better to have them checked.

 

What To Expect During Your Screening

Your oral cancer screening is included as part of your regular dental cleaning and exam. There's no additional appointment needed, and the process is completely painless.

Here's what happens:

Visual Examination

We'll carefully look at all the surfaces inside your mouth, checking for any abnormal tissue, discoloration or sores.

Physical Examination

We'll gently feel your neck, jaw, and throat area to check for lumps or irregularities that might not be visible.

Discussion

We'll talk with you about our findings. If everything looks normal, we're done. If we see anything concerning, we'll explain the next steps.

 

If we identify an area that needs further evaluation, we may recommend a biopsy or referral to a specialist. Remember, most abnormalities turn out to be benign, but it's always worth investigating to be certain.

 

How Often Should You Be Screened?

We recommend oral cancer screening at least once per year, but ideally with every dental checkup. Since we suggest dental visits every six months, most patients receive oral cancer screenings twice yearly.

If you have higher risk factors like tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption or a previous history of oral cancer, we may recommend more frequent screenings.

Regular screenings are especially important because early-stage oral cancer often has no symptoms. By the time you notice something unusual, it may have already progressed. Routine screenings catch problems before you'd ever know they're there.

 

Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening In Yuma

Early detection saves lives. Don't wait for symptoms to appear. Schedule your comprehensive dental exam with oral cancer screening today.

Request Appointment

You can also call us at (928) 782-3685 or request an appointment online.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screening

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Comprehensive Dental Care In Yuma

Oral cancer screening is just one part of our commitment to your complete oral health. With over 20 years of dental experience, Dr. Grady and our compassionate team provide thorough, gentle care in a welcoming environment.

We serve patients throughout Yuma and the surrounding communities. Whether you're due for a routine checkup or concerned about a specific symptom, we're here to help.

Call (928) 782-3685 or schedule online to book your appointment at Arizona Avenue Dentistry today.

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