Oral health is more than just maintaining a bright smile and cavity-free teeth—it’s also about safeguarding your overall wellness. One of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of dental care is the routine screening for oral cancer. At Ifantis Dental Care in Morton Grove, IL, we are committed to not only enhancing your smile but also protecting your life through early detection strategies like oral cancer screenings.
Oral cancer can be life-threatening if not diagnosed early, but with modern screening tools and routine check-ups, it is highly treatable in its initial stages. In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about oral cancer screenings—what they are, why they matter, who should get them, and how we perform them at Ifantis Dental Care.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any part of the oral cavity, including:
- Lips
- Gums
- Tongue
- Inner lining of the cheeks
- Roof and floor of the mouth
- Throat and tonsils
Like many cancers, oral cancer often presents subtle symptoms in its early stages, which can make it difficult to detect without a professional screening. That’s why routine oral cancer screenings are essential—even if you feel healthy.
Why Are Routine Oral Cancer Screenings So Important?
- Early Detection Saves Lives: When oral cancer is caught early, the survival rate is 80–90%. Unfortunately, most cases are diagnosed at a late stage, significantly reducing treatment success. Routine screenings help catch suspicious signs early, often before symptoms are noticeable.
- Painless and Non-Invasive Process: The screening process is quick, painless, and non-invasive, often taking just a few minutes during your regular dental check-up. There is no recovery time, discomfort, or preparation needed.
- Risk Factors Are Increasing: Tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV) are among the leading causes of oral cancer. With the rise in HPV-related cases, you don’t have to be a smoker to be at risk. Routine screening is important for everyone—especially those over 40 or with lifestyle risks.
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening at Ifantis Dental Care?
At Ifantis Dental Care in Morton Grove, IL, we incorporate oral cancer screenings into your regular dental exam. Here’s what the process looks like:
Visual Inspection: We begin with a thorough visual examination of your mouth, lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, throat, and neck for any abnormalities such as:
- Red or white patches
- Sores or ulcers that won’t heal
- Unusual lumps or thickening of tissue
- Changes in texture or color
- Difficulty swallowing or hoarseness
Tactile Examination: Tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV) are among the leading causes of oral cancer. With the rise in HPV-related cases, you don’t have to be a smoker to be at risk. Routine screening is important for everyone—especially those over 40 or with lifestyle risks.
Advanced Technology (If Needed): If we detect something suspicious, we may use enhanced imaging tools or recommend a biopsy for further evaluation. Our goal is to provide clarity and peace of mind—not to alarm, but to protect.
Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Even between dental visits, it's important to stay aware of signs that may suggest a problem:
- Persistent mouth sores
- Unexplained bleeding
- Pain or numbness in the face or mouth
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Persistent sore throat or feeling of something stuck in your throat
If you notice any of these, contact Ifantis Dental Care immediately for a comprehensive evaluation.
Who Should Get Oral Cancer Screenings?
While everyone should be screened during routine dental visits, certain individuals have a higher risk and should be more vigilant:
- Adults over the age of 40
- Smokers and tobacco users
- Heavy alcohol consumers
- Individuals with HPV
- Those with a family history of cancer
- People with excessive sun exposure (risk of lip cancer)
If you fall into any of these categories, let us know so we can tailor your care accordingly.
Why Choose Ifantis Dental Care in Morton Grove, IL?
We believe in whole-person dentistry. At Ifantis Dental Care, you’re not just another patient—you’re part of our community. Our approach to oral cancer screenings includes:
- Highly trained dental professionals
- Use of the latest screening technology
- Compassionate, comprehensive care
- Education and prevention-focused treatment plans
- Routine integration into your regular dental visits
Our mission is to ensure you leave our office not only smiling brighter but feeling healthier and more confident in your well-being.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Prevention and early detection are the keys to beating oral cancer. Make oral cancer screening part of your health routine—because your life is worth it.