10 Oral Cancer Symptoms to be aware of
- Breathing issues
- White or red patches in the mouth
- Earache
- Hoarseness of the voice
- Persistent cough
- a change in the way teeth come together
- Trouble moving the jaw, swallowing, or chewing
- Sores that stick around
- Numbness or bleeding in/around the mouth
- Swollen lumps or bumps on gums or in the mouth.
A quick do-it-your Oral Cancer check
You can do a few things to keep an eye on your oral health. We still recommend you keep your regular appointments for a professional screening. For this, be sure to have lots of light (a flashlight helps) and a large mirror.
- If you have dentures in your mouth, remove them first.
- Look and feel for any changes to your front gums or lips.
- Shine a light on the roof of your mouth and use your index finger to feel for texture changes.
- Stretch out your cheeks and look inside and feel them. You’re inspecting for bumps, lumps, or any inconsistencies. While your cheeks are retracted, examine your gums (top and bottom). Run your finger over them.
- Pull your tongue forward with a washcloth and look for any changes to the top, bottom, and floor.
- Feel on each side of your neck and underneath your jaw to see if lymph nodes are swollen. If so, stay calm, as this could mean your body is fighting off a cold.
Just like any health concerns you’d raise with your doctor, any changes in your mouth should be brought to our attention. At our practice, oral cancer checks are an integral part of our treatment protocol. We want to do everything possible to aid you in achieving and keeping the very best possible oral health.
How much does an oral cancer test cost?
At Gentle Dental Vancouver, we understand the importance of accessibility to essential healthcare services. We strive to make oral cancer screening affordable for everyone in our community. Please contact our friendly team to inquire about the cost of an oral cancer test and any available payment options.
How do you get a cancer screening in BC?
Getting a cancer screening in British Columbia is simple and convenient. As part of our commitment to preventive care, Gentle Dental Vancouver offers oral cancer screenings during your regular dental check-ups. Simply schedule an appointment with our team, and we'll take care of the rest. If you have specific concerns or would like to request a standalone oral cancer screening, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.
Schedule your oral cancer screening with Gentle Dental Vancouver today and take control of your oral health journey. Contact us today or book your appointment online.
