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Identify Early Signs with an Oral Cancer Screening

At Luxe Dental Arts, we prioritize early detection—especially for oral cancer. We recommend including an oral cancer screening at least once a year as part of your routine dental care. These quick, non-invasive exams help identify abnormalities early, when treatment is most effective.

Important Facts About Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is often referred to as a “silent disease” because it can develop without obvious symptoms. It may affect the lips, cheeks, tongue, gums, or the roof and floor of the mouth. If not detected early, oral cancer can progress rapidly and become life-threatening.

Key risk factors include:

  • Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV)
Regardless of the cause, regular screenings are crucial. Each year, thousands of people in the U.S. die from oral cancer, and survivors may face serious complications, including disfigurement or the spread of cancer to other areas of the body.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Although screenings can identify issues before symptoms arise, it’s important to recognize common warning signs of oral cancer:
  • Persistent mouth sores or ulcers that fail to heal
  • Red or white patches inside the mouth
  • Lumps, rough spots, or thickened areas in oral tissues
  • Numbness or pain in the mouth or lips
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
  • Changes in the way your teeth fit together
If you’ve experienced any of these signs—or if it’s been more than a year since your last screening—it’s important to schedule an oral cancer exam.

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