Oral Cancer Screening in Gilmer, TX
Dr. Furniss includes an oral cancer screening as part of routine checkups because early detection matters. The screening takes only a few minutes and is an important part of preventive care.
Request a CheckupEarly Detection Matters
Oral cancer screening is included with routine checkups, with no separate appointment needed.
Included at Every Visit
We don't wait for symptoms. Oral cancer screening is a standard part of every routine checkup at our office.
Quick and Comfortable
The screening takes only a few minutes. It includes a visual and physical exam of your mouth, throat, and neck.
Early Detection Matters
When caught early, oral cancer has an 84% five-year survival rate. Regular screening is your best defense.
What the Screening Involves
During your routine checkup in our Gilmer office, Dr. Furniss will examine your oral tissues for signs of anything unusual. Here is what we look at:
- Visual inspection of the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and the roof and floor of the mouth
- Feeling the tissues of your mouth and throat for lumps or irregularities
- Checking your neck and jaw for unusual swelling
- Looking for white or red patches, sores, or rough spots
- Evaluating any areas of concern you've noticed
If we find anything concerning, we will discuss the next steps with you, which may include further evaluation or a biopsy. An abnormal area does not necessarily mean cancer, but it should be evaluated.
Risk Factors
Anyone can develop oral cancer, but certain factors increase your risk. Being aware of these helps you and your dentist stay vigilant:
- Tobacco use – cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, or snuff
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
- Excessive sun exposure to the lips
- Previous oral cancer diagnosis
- Family history of cancer
- Age over 55 (though HPV-related cases are rising in younger adults)
- Poor nutrition and weakened immune system
Monthly Self-Exam Guide
Between dental visits, we recommend a quick self-exam once a month. It only takes a few minutes in front of a mirror. Here is what to check:
- Look at and feel your lips and the front of your gums
- Tilt your head back and examine the roof of your mouth
- Pull your cheeks out to see the inner surfaces and back gums
- Stick out your tongue and look at all surfaces – top, bottom, and sides
- Feel for lumps or enlarged lymph nodes on both sides of your neck and under your jaw
Warning signs to watch for: white or red patches, a sore that doesn't heal within two weeks, unexplained bleeding, numbness, a persistent lump or thickening, chronic sore throat or hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing.
If you notice anything unusual, call our Gilmer office. Most abnormalities are not cancer, but they should be checked. Patients from Gilmer and across East Texas rely on us for careful screenings.
Your Journey to a Beautiful Smile
Getting started is easy with our simple three-step process
Call
Schedule a complimentary one-on-one consultation with Dr. Furniss to discuss your dental goals and concerns.
Dream
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