Family Dentistry Services

Oral Cancer Screening in Oak Forest, IL

Oral cancer can go undetected for many years after it has developed. When identified at an early stage, oral cancer can be treated quickly with a high success rate. However, if left alone to advance, oral cancers are more likely to spread to other areas and will require more complex treatments. This is why an oral cancer screening in Oak Forest is an important part of routine dental care.

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Get screened early and often

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, one person dies every hour from oral cancer in the United States. Don’t let oral cancer sneak up on you. We recommend regular oral cancer screenings during which our doctors will carefully examine all areas of your mouth and throat. Our dentists are skilled at detecting early signs of oral cancer.

What is an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is usually performed during a comprehensive or recall (check-up) exam. Screening is painless and only takes a few minutes. The dentist or hygienist will use a laser light to assess the soft tissue for cell changes that might be indicative of oral cancer. If such cell changes are present, a small biopsy will be taken and sent to a laboratory for review. If the biopsy indicates that oral cancer is present, an excision (removal) will generally be performed.

If you are experiencing any pain or symptoms that cause you concern, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an oral cancer exam, and why is it important?

An oral cancer exam is part of a routine dental check-up, where your dentist inspects the soft tissues of your mouth, neck, and face for any abnormalities in color or texture that could indicate a pathological issue like oral cancer. Early detection is critical for successful treatment, as the survival rate for oral cancer is around 80% if diagnosed early.

What are some common pathological conditions affecting the oral region?

Common pathological conditions include geographic tongue (a map-like appearance with missing papillae), median palatal cysts (fluid-filled sacs that develop in the palate), and hairy tongue (a bacterial or yeast overgrowth). While many of these conditions are not life-threatening, prompt diagnosis and treatment can alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.

Effective, reliable treatments for patients of all ages.

No matter what your needs or goals for your smile may be, our dentists and teams are here to help. We look forward to meeting you and every member of your family and helping you take your first steps to better smiles.

Take some time to learn more about the services we provide at Oak Forest Complete Dental. When you are ready to schedule an appointment with our dentists, contact our dental offices in Oak Forest.

More Family Dentistry Services

Our experienced and caring team is dedicated to serving patients of all ages, from children to seniors, and providing top-notch oral health care for the entire family. We strive to make dental visits easy and stress-free for you and your loved ones. Our family-friendly atmosphere ensures that every member of your household feels comfortable and at ease during their dental appointments.

From routine check-ups and cleanings to preventive treatments like dental sealants and fluoride treatments, we prioritize preventive care to maintain healthy smiles for a lifetime. Should any dental concerns arise, our skilled dentists are equipped to deliver a wide range of services, including restorative treatments, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry.

Children’s Check-ups & Cleanings
Dental Cleanings & Exams
Dental Hygiene
Dental Sealants
Extractions
Fluoride Treatment
Gum Disease Treatment
Night Guards
Sports Mouth Guards
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