At Lake Forest Smiles, we believe in the power of prevention and early detection. That’s why every dental checkup includes a thorough oral cancer screening, designed to catch early signs of disease before they progress. Oral cancer is a serious concern, so we want to catch it early. Our approach emphasizes early detection and comprehensive preventative care, empowering you to take control of your oral health. With every dental checkup comes peace of mind.
Our advanced technology and a compassionate approach empowers our patients at Lake Forest, Lincolnshire, and surrounding communities to take control of their health, one checkup at a time.
The Importance of Preventive Screenings
Mouth cancer can develop in any part of the mouth, including lips, tongue, gums, cheek lining, under the tongue, and roof of the mouth.
According to the American Cancer Society, over 50,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer each year. Unfortunately, many of these cases are not discovered until the disease is in its advanced stages. Early detection is absolutely vital.
Oral cancer screenings at Lake Forest Smiles are thorough yet straightforward. Using VELscope, a handheld device that utilizes natural tissue fluorescence, we can identify abnormalities in oral mucosal tissues that may be indicative of precancerous changes. For high-risk patients, we recommend screenings at every checkup.
What to Expect During Your Oral Cancer Screening
Our screenings are fast, non-invasive, and completely painless. During your regular dental checkup, our dentist will perform a visual and tactile examination of your mouth, head, and neck areas. We look for any signs of abnormal tissue, including sores, discoloration, swelling or unusual texture.
Technology- VELscope
We use the VELscope, a state-of-the-art handheld device that uses natural tissue fluorescence to detect early signs of precancerous or cancerous changes. This tool allows us to visualize abnormalities not visible to the naked eye, enhancing our ability to detect issues early when treatment is most effective.
If we notice any areas of concern, we may recommend further testing, a biopsy, or referral to a specialist. Our priority is always your safety and comfort throughout the process.
Prevention: Your Best Defense Against Oral Cancer
Prevention is key, and lifestyle choices play a crucial role in reducing the risk of oral cancer. At Lake Forest Smiles, we support our patients in building habits that not only protect their smiles but their overall well-being.
Here are some essential steps in safeguarding your health:
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Limit unprotected sun exposure, especially to your lips
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet
- Get vaccinated against HPV
- Moderate alcohol consumption
- Avoid tobacco products
Seeing your Lake Forest Smiles dentist regularly for cleanings is part of our preventative care program. Our dentists are dedicated to your health and well-being at every stage of oral care.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Knowing the symptoms of oral cancer is equally vital. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your mouth, it’s crucial to seek an oral cancer screening promptly. Many early signs of oral cancer may seem minor at first, which is why it’s important to report any unusual symptoms to the dentist right away.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Persistent sores in the mouth or on the lips that don’t heal.
- Red, white or speckled patches in the mouth.
- A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck.
- Rough, crusted or eroded areas.
- Numbness, pain or tenderness in the mouth or lips.
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking.
- A sore throat or feeling that something is stuck in the throat.
- Loose teeth without dental cause.
- Swelling of the jaw or neck.
Call us today for a checkup if you have any concerns about your oral health.
Why Choose Lake Forest Smiles for Oral Cancer Screenings?
At Lake Forest Smiles, we’re not just focused on your teeth, we’re focused on your whole health. Our experienced and compassionate dental team is committed to providing comprehensive care in a welcoming, state-of-the-art environment. We’ve built a reputation in this area for quality dentistry that prioritizes early intervention and patient education.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Advanced diagnostic technology like VELscope
- Personalized care for every patient
- Emphasis on prevention as part of every dental visit
- Thorough screenings included with every checkup
- Strong community ties and commitment to your long-term health
You deserve a dental team that takes your health seriously and helps you make informed decisions. With Lake Forest Smiles, you’re in good hands.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Oral cancer has a significantly higher survival rate when detected early. Unfortunately, many patients don’t notice symptoms until the cancer has already progressed. That’s why routine screenings are not just important, they’re potentially life-saving.
When you visit Lake Forest Smiles, you’re not just receiving a cleaning or checkup. You’re gaining a proactive partner in your health. Every appointment is an opportunity to catch problems early and ensure you’re living your healthiest life.
What Happens After an Abnormal Screening?
If your oral cancer screening reveals a suspicious area, don’t panic, most abnormalities are not cancer. However, we take any irregularity seriously. Depending on the nature of the finding, we may take the following steps:
Refer for a Biopsy
A biopsy is the most definitive way to determine if abnormal tissue is cancerous. We’ll refer you to a trusted local oncologist who can perform this test with precision and care.
Monitor the Area
Some lesions or spots are caused by irritation and may resolve on their own. We’ll recheck the site at your next visit or schedule a follow-up sooner.
Coordinate Care with Specialists:
If a diagnosis of oral cancer is confirmed, we’ll work closely with your oncology team to ensure you have comprehensive support and information every step of the way.
Our role doesn’t end with the exam. We stay involved to ensure you receive prompt answers, personalized guidance, and access to the best treatment resources in the Lake Forest area.
How Often Should You Get an Oral Cancer Screening?
At Lake Forest Smiles, we include an oral cancer screening with every six-month checkup. However, depending on your individual risk factors, we may recommend more frequent screenings.
We recommend you be seen sooner if you:
- Are a current or former tobacco users
- Consume alcohol regularly
- Have a personal or family history of cancer
- Are monitoring a current lesion or bumo
- Have high sun exposure (especially affecting the lips)
- Have a weakened immune systems
- Have a known HPV diagnosis
How often you are screened can be tailored to your needs, ensuring the most proactive and personalized care possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer
No. Oral cancer screenings are completely painless. We simply examine your mouth and use tools like the VELscope to enhance visibility of tissue changes.
Just a few minutes. It’s typically performed during your regular dental exam and cleaning appointment.
Many dental insurance plans cover oral cancer screenings as part of preventive care. We’re happy to check your coverage and file claims on your behalf.
Yes. While tobacco and alcohol increase the risk of oral cancer, many cases occur in patients with no obvious risk factors. Regular screenings are recommended for everyone over age 18.
Yes! When caught early, oral cancer has a high survival rate. Treatment can involve surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy, depending on the stage and location of the cancer. That’s why early detection through routine screenings is so important. Regular checkups at Lake Forest Smiles give you the best chance for early diagnosis and successful treatment if any issues are found.
Get Quality Care in Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Lincolnshire, IL
With every dental checkup comes peace of mind at Lake Forest Smiles. Trust our dentists to be on the lookout for oral cancer as part of your regular checkups. We invite you to schedule an oral health checkup and oral cancer screening with our team today.