Oral Cancer Screenings in Griffin, GA
At Hamilton Family Dentistry, we take your health seriously. That’s why we offer oral cancer screenings as part of your regular dental checkups. Detecting oral cancer early can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and improve your overall outcome. Our goal is to catch any abnormalities early—before they become more serious or harder to treat.
What is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick, non-invasive exam that we perform during your routine dental visit. Dr. Timothy Hamilton will thoroughly examine the soft tissues of your mouth, including your gums, tongue, lips, cheeks, and the roof and floor of your mouth, to identify any potential signs of cancer or other abnormalities. Early detection of oral cancer is vital, as it can be life-threatening if left undiagnosed.
What Does Oral Cancer Include?
Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the lips, tongue, floor of the mouth, cheeks, throat (pharynx), sinuses, and the hard and soft palate. While oral cancer is treatable when detected early, many cases are not identified until they have reached more advanced, difficult-to-treat stages. In fact, untreated oral cancer can be life-threatening. That’s why we emphasize the importance of regular screenings and early detection.
Common Symptoms of Oral Cancer
While many cases of oral cancer are asymptomatic in the early stages, there are several signs and symptoms to be aware of. If you experience any of the following, it’s important to seek immediate dental care:
- Persistent sore throat or feeling that something is caught in the back of your throat
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- A persistent sore on the face, neck, or mouth that bleeds easily and does not heal within two weeks
- Numbness, pain, or unexplained loss of feeling in the face, neck, or mouth
- Ear pain
- Lumps, bumps, or rough spots on the gums, lips, or other areas inside the mouth
- Red, white, or speckled red-and-white patches in the mouth
- Difficulty chewing, speaking, or swallowing
- A change in the fit of your teeth or dentures
If you notice any of these symptoms, we encourage you to contact us right away. While our team performs a comprehensive screening during your routine checkup, it’s important to report any changes or discomfort you experience between visits.
Why Are Oral Cancer Screenings Important?
Oral cancer can often be undetected until it progresses into an advanced stage. By the time symptoms are noticeable, the cancer may have spread, making treatment more difficult and less effective. That’s why early detection through regular screenings is crucial. Catching oral cancer in its earliest stages increases the chances of successful treatment and can save lives.
How Does an Oral Cancer Screening Work?
The screening process is quick and painless. During your dental exam, Dr. Hamilton will look for any signs of abnormalities, including unusual growths, discoloration, sores, or changes in your soft tissues. If necessary, further tests such as biopsies may be recommended to confirm any findings.
Who Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening?
We recommend that all adults receive oral cancer screenings as part of their regular dental checkups. While anyone can develop oral cancer, those who are at higher risk should be particularly vigilant. Risk factors include:
- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Age (oral cancer is more common in people over 40)
- Family history of oral cancer
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
- Excessive sun exposure (lip cancer)
Even without these risk factors, it’s still important for everyone to have regular screenings to detect any potential problems early.
The Benefits of Oral Cancer Screenings:
Early Detection:
Detecting oral cancer in its early stages can greatly improve treatment outcomes.
Non-Invasive:
The screening is simple, quick, and non-invasive.
Peace of Mind:
Regular screenings provide reassurance that your oral health is in good condition.
Life-Saving:
Early detection of oral cancer can prevent it from spreading and become life-saving.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today
To schedule your screening or learn more about oral cancer care, call us at 770-227-7422 or contact us online. Dr. Timothy Hamilton and our caring team are here to support your health every step of the way. Let us help you stay proactive about your health and protect your smile for years to come.
