Oral Cancer Screening

Safeguard Your Smile, Protect Your Health – Oral Cancer Screening in NE Calgary

Early Detection is Key – Don’t Let Oral Cancer Go Unnoticed

At London Square Dental, we believe in the power of prevention and early detection. Oral cancer is a serious condition, but when caught in its early stages, the chances of successful treatment are significantly higher. That’s why we offer comprehensive oral cancer screenings in NE Calgary, as an essential part of your regular dental care routine.

Why Oral Cancer Screening is Essential

Oral cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. In Canada, it’s estimated that over 5,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, and sadly, not everyone will survive. While smoking and tobacco use remain major risk factors, the fastest-growing segment of oral cancer cases is now found in non-smokers under 50. Other risk factors include:

  • HPV infection
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Sun exposure (especially to the lips)
  • Family history of cancer
 

Early detection is crucial. When discovered early, oral cancer has a high survival rate. Our thorough screenings can help identify potential problems before they become serious, giving you the best chance for successful treatment.

What to Expect During Your Oral Cancer Screening at London Square Dental

We understand that any type of cancer screening can be a bit nerve-wracking. Rest assured, our oral cancer screenings are quick, painless, and non-invasive. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect during your appointment:

  • Visual Examination: Your dentist will carefully examine your mouth, tongue, lips, cheeks, gums, and throat, looking for any signs of redness, sores, lumps, or other irregularities.
  • Palpation: Your dentist will gently feel your neck and jaw for any swollen lymph nodes or unusual masses.
 

Advanced Screening Technology (VELscope): We utilize VELscope, a state-of-the-art screening tool that uses a special light to identify abnormal tissue changes that may not be visible to the naked eye. This helps us detect potential problems at their earliest stages.

Who is at Risk for Oral Cancer?

While anyone can develop oral cancer, it’s important to be aware of certain risk factors that increase your chances:

  • Tobacco and alcohol use
  • HPV infection
  • Excessive sun exposure
  • Family history of cancer
  • Age (over 40)
 

Even if you don’t have any of these risk factors, regular oral cancer screenings are still recommended as part of your preventive dental care.

Why Choose London Square Dental for Your Oral Cancer Screening?

  • Experienced and Caring Professionals: Our dentists have extensive experience in oral cancer detection and are committed to providing you with a comfortable and supportive environment. We understand the importance of early detection and will answer any questions you may have.
  • Thorough and Comprehensive Screening: We utilize a meticulous approach, combining visual examinations with advanced technology like VELscope to ensure a thorough and accurate assessment of your oral health.
  • Clear Communication and Guidance: We believe in open communication. We will clearly explain the findings of your screening and provide guidance on any necessary next steps, including referrals to specialists if needed.

Testimonials

FAQ

We recommend annual screenings for most adults. If you have risk factors, we may suggest more frequent screenings.

Common signs include sores that don’t heal, red or white patches in the mouth, difficulty swallowing or chewing, and persistent bad breath. However, early-stage oral cancer may not have any noticeable symptoms.

Risk factors include tobacco and alcohol use, HPV infection, excessive sun exposure, and a family history of cancer.

Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol use, limit sun exposure to your lips, practice good oral hygiene, and get regular dental checkups and screenings.

Many insurance plans cover oral cancer screenings. We recommend contacting your insurance provider for details.

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