Our team – Dr. Kevin Priest, DDS, MA, FAGD, Dr. Evan MacDonald, DDS, and Dr. Elsie Hinz, DDS – brings many years of combined experience providing thorough oral exams and preventative care. We look at the bigger picture, including early signs of oral cancer that can make all the difference when caught in time.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancer that starts in the mouth. This can include the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, and throat.
Risk factors include tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, HPV, and age. If left undetected, oral cancer can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening. In fact, it can be fatal if diagnosed at a later stage, which is why early detection and regular screenings matter.
Early Signs of Oral Cancer
Sometimes, the symptoms are subtle, but there are a few things you should watch for:
- A sore in your mouth that doesn’t heal
- Red or white patches on the tongue, gums, or inner cheeks
- A lump, thickening, or rough spot in your mouth
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Numbness, pain, or tenderness that lingers
- Changes in your voice or a chronic sore throat
If something feels off and doesn’t go away after a week or two, it’s worth getting checked out.
When to See a Dentist to Check for Oral Cancer
The best time to see a dentist for oral cancer screening is during your routine dental exams. We include these screenings as part of your check-up.
But if you’re noticing anything unusual between visits, don’t wait. We want to catch oral cancer as early as possible, and we’re here to help with thorough evaluations.
Let’s Keep You Healthy
At Priest Dental, your health is our priority. Every screening includes a close look at your gums, tongue, cheeks, and throat because we know small symptoms can lead to big concerns if ignored.
If you have a sore that won’t heal, a patch that looks unusual, or even just something that doesn’t feel quite right, let’s take a look. Call us at 419-289-1813 to schedule an appointment in Ashland, OH. It’s a quick visit that could protect more than just your smile.