At Afton Family Dental, Dr. Corey Christensen includes oral cancer screenings as part of your routine dental exams. While these screenings are an important preventive measure, we also encourage you to schedule a visit any time you notice unusual changes in the soft tissues of your mouth or surrounding areas.
Why are Oral Cancer Screenings Necessary?
Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth or throat and may not cause obvious symptoms in its early stages. Left undiagnosed, it can progress quickly and pose serious health risks. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, which is why regular screenings are essential. Common warning signs to watch for include:
- Persistent sores in or around the mouth that don’t heal
- Changes in the color or texture of oral tissues
- Unexplained numbness or pain in the face, neck, or mouth
- Difficulty speaking, swallowing, or chewing
- A chronic sore throat or sensation of something stuck in the throat
- Changes in how your teeth fit together or how dentures sit
If you notice any of these symptoms—or anything else unusual—schedule an evaluation with Dr. Christensen as soon as possible. Our team uses visual and tactile screening methods to detect signs of concern and, if needed, guide you through the next steps for diagnosis and care.