Every year, thousands of Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer, a condition that can be life-threatening if not detected early. Oral cancer screenings are a vital preventive measure that can significantly increase survival rates through early detection. At North Creek Dental Care in Tinley Park, IL, we provide comprehensive oral cancer screenings as part of our commitment to protecting your overall health and well-being.
North Creek Dental Care offers professional oral cancer screenings performed by our experienced dental team led by Dr. Omar El Ebrashy, Dr. Samuel D. Kang, Dr. Tom Ryan, and Dr. Charles H. Goodman. Located at 18425 West Creek Drive in Tinley Park, our practice combines advanced screening technology with personalized care to ensure your oral health is thoroughly protected.
Understanding Oral Cancer and Its Risk Factors
Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and throat. When detected early, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer patients increases dramatically. Understanding risk factors is crucial for proper assessment and preventive care.
Tobacco use remains the leading cause of oral cancer, with smokers being six times more likely to develop the disease compared to non-smokers. Regular alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use, significantly increases risk. Human papillomavirus (HPV) has emerged as another significant risk factor, particularly for cancers affecting the back of the mouth and throat. Additional risk factors include excessive sun exposure to the lips, family history of cancer, and advancing age.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of oral cancer can make the difference between a simple, effective treatment and a life-threatening situation. Regular screenings can identify precancerous conditions before they develop into full-blown cancer, allowing for minimally invasive interventions.
Professional screenings performed by dentists in Tinley Park are particularly effective because they can detect abnormal tissue changes that might not be visible to the untrained eye. Many early oral cancer symptoms are subtle and painless, making professional evaluation essential. North Creek Dental Care incorporates oral cancer screenings into routine dental check-ups, ensuring your mouth is regularly monitored for any suspicious changes.
Professional Oral Cancer Screening Process at North Creek Dental Care
At North Creek Dental Care, our oral cancer screening process is thorough yet comfortable. The screening is a painless procedure that typically takes just a few minutes as part of your comprehensive oral examination.
Advanced Screening Technology
Our practice utilizes advanced screening methods, including VELscope technology, to enhance our ability to detect abnormalities. This specialized light-based system helps identify suspicious tissues that might not be visible during a conventional examination.
The VELscope uses a special blue light that causes healthy tissues to naturally fluoresce, while potentially problematic areas appear darker. This technology allows our dentists to identify abnormal cell growth at the earliest possible stage, often before visible signs appear to the naked eye. The entire VELscope examination is painless, non-invasive, and adds only a few minutes to your regular dental visit.
What to Expect During Your Screening
Your oral cancer screening at North Creek Dental Care begins with a visual examination of your face, neck, lips, and mouth to check for asymmetries, swelling, or discoloration. Our dentists will carefully inspect the inside of your mouth, including your tongue, cheeks, roof, and floor of your mouth, looking for red or white patches, sores that haven’t healed, or unusual tissue changes.
The dentist will gently examine the tissues of your mouth and throat to detect any lumps or abnormalities. This tactile examination is crucial for identifying deeper tissue changes that might not be visible on the surface. If any suspicious areas are found, our dentists may recommend additional testing or a biopsy to determine if the cells are cancerous. Throughout this process, our team will ensure your comfort and answer any questions you might have about the procedure.
Warning Signs of Oral Cancer to Watch For
Being aware of potential oral cancer symptoms can help you seek professional evaluation promptly. Contact our Tinley Park dental office if you notice any of the following persistent symptoms.
Red or White Patches
Red or white patches in the mouth are often the earliest visible signs of oral cancer. These patches may be painless but can indicate abnormal cell growth requiring professional assessment. Unexplained bleeding in the mouth, particularly without an obvious cause like injury, should never be ignored.
Persistent Sore
A persistent sore throat that doesn’t respond to typical treatment could indicate a problem in the oral cavity or throat. Difficulty swallowing or chewing, especially when it develops suddenly or worsens over time, may signal an obstruction caused by abnormal growth. Lumps or thickening of oral tissues, even when painless, should be evaluated by a dental professional to rule out serious conditions.
Preventive Measures and Oral Health Maintenance
Prevention remains the best defense against oral cancer. Regular screenings combined with healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk of developing this disease.
Scheduling annual oral cancer examinations with our Tinley Park dental team ensures consistent monitoring of your oral health. These regular check-ups allow us to track any changes over time and intervene early if necessary. Between professional visits, performing periodic oral self-examinations at home can help you become familiar with the normal appearance of your mouth and alert you to any changes.
Limiting tobacco use and alcohol consumption substantially reduces your oral cancer risk. If you need support quitting tobacco, our team can provide resources to help. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, promotes overall oral health and makes it easier to detect abnormalities during examinations.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today
Protecting your health starts with preventive care and early detection. At North Creek Dental Care, we’re committed to providing thorough oral cancer screenings as part of our comprehensive dental services for Tinley Park residents.
Our team of experienced dental professionals is dedicated to your comfort and well-being. We make the screening process quick and painless while ensuring thorough evaluation of your oral health. With convenient hours, we make it easy to prioritize this essential health screening. Contact North Creek Dental Care today at (708) 532-4131 or complete our contact form to schedule your oral cancer screening and take a proactive step toward protecting your health.