What is oral cancer, and what screenings are available?

Golden, Colorado, area patients who want to ensure they have proper oral health and wellness will want to be aware of changes happening in their smile that may indicate oral cancer. Our team at Dentistry at Golden Ridge provides oral cancer screenings and evaluations to help catch this condition in the earliest stages for the best possible outcome.

What is oral cancer?

Dr. Jamie Richard describes oral cancer as any cancerous growth or tumor in the mouth, jaw, throat, and esophagus. Just like cancers in other parts of the body, they can develop, grow, and spread rapidly.

Who is at risk of oral cancer?

Oral cancer typically appears in patients over 40 years old and can be caused by several different factors. Some most common risk factors include smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products, excessive alcohol consumption, and overexposure to ultraviolet light from sunlight or tanning beds. Other possible contributing factors include hormonal imbalances, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, poor nutrition, and bad oral hygiene habits.

What are some of the signs that oral cancer is present?

The symptoms of oral cancer vary, specifically depending on the area affected. But can include swollen tissues in the mouth or neck, pain when chewing food or swallowing drinks, prolonged bleeding after brushing teeth or eating hard foods, lumps or sores that will not heal, numbness in the mouth, and hoarseness or voice changes.

What do I do if I have unusual changes or growths in the oral cavity?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of oral cancer and notice changes in your smile that have not occurred before, it is critical that you see Dr. Richard immediately for a thorough oral exam. The earlier oral cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better your chances will be of beating this disease. In many cases, early detection can prevent serious complications and improve your overall quality of life.

How do I schedule an oral cancer screening?

Tongue and mouth cancer requires early detection for the best and most effective treatment. If you suspect you have oral cancer, call Dr. Jamie Richard and her team at Dentistry at Golden Ridge today at (303) 951-8515 to request an appointment at our office, conveniently located at 755 Heritage Road, Suite #120 in Golden, CO. We also serve patients in the surrounding communities of Idaho Springs, Arvada, Wheat Ridge, Littleton, Morrison, Denver and Evergreen, CO.