Professional Oral Cancer Screening in Cache Valley
Early detection saves lives. At Aspen Dental of Cache Valley, Dr. Blake Cameron, Dr. Jeff Wegener, and Dr. Derek Rickson are committed to providing comprehensive oral cancer screening services for patients throughout Logan, UT and the surrounding Cache Valley area. Our experienced dentists use advanced screening techniques to detect oral cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages.
Oral cancer affects thousands of Americans each year, but when caught early, the survival rate is significantly higher. That’s why our Cache Valley dental team incorporates thorough oral cancer screening into every routine examination, ensuring our patients receive peace of mind and fast detection with every visit.
Understanding Oral Cancer and Risk Factors
Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard or soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Our dentists are trained to identify the subtle signs of oral cancer that patients might overlook during their daily oral care routine.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Tobacco use is the leading risk factor, with smokers being six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers. Heavy alcohol consumption also significantly increases the risk, and the combination of tobacco and alcohol user creates an even higher risk.
HPV infection has become an increasingly recognized risk factor for oral cancer, especially in young patients, as is sun exposure and even age and gender, with men over 40 being at higher risk.
Anyone can develop oral cancer, regardless of risk factors. That’s why our dentists recommend regular oral cancer screening for all Logan and Cache Valley patients as part of their dental checkups.
How is an Oral Cancer Screening Performed?
At Aspen Dental of Cache Valley, oral cancer screenings are performed using a few tried-and-true methods:
- Visual and Tactile Examination forms the foundation of our oral cancer screening process. Our dentists carefully examine all areas of your mouth, throat, and neck, looking for any unusual growths, discoloration, or texture changes that could indicate cancerous or pre-cancerous conditions.
- Lymph Node Examination is a crucial and sometimes overlooked component of a thorough oral cancer screening. Our experienced dentists carefully palpate the neck and jaw area to detect any enlarged or abnormal lymph nodes that could indicate the spread of cancer.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
While regular professional oral cancer screening is essential, it’s important to be aware of potential warning signs between visits to our Logan, UT practice. Contact Dr. Cameron, Dr. Wegener, or Dr. Rickson if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches in your mouth or throat
- Lumps, bumps, or rough spots on your lips, gums, or inside your mouth
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving your tongue or jaw
- Persistent hoarseness or changes in your voice
- Numbness in your mouth, face, or neck
- Persistent sore throat or feeling that something is caught in your throat
- Unexplained bleeding in your mouth
- Loose teeth without apparent cause
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
Early detection through professional oral cancer screening significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening in Logan, UT Today
At Aspen Dental of Cache Valley, Dr. Blake Cameron, Dr. Jeff Wegener, and Dr. Derek Rickson work together to provide comprehensive oral cancer screening services right here in Logan, UT. At our practice, you can expect thorough care from experienced professionals who understand the importance of early detection.
Don’t wait to protect your oral health. Schedule your comprehensive oral cancer screening at Aspen Dental of Cache Valley today and take an important step toward maintaining your overall health and well-being.
