Oral cancer can destroy your smile. If left untreated, it can also spread to other parts of your body and could be fatal. There are certain risk factors that can increase the chances of developing oral cancer, and even if you think that you are not at risk, you should still visit MI Smile Team for your oral cancer screenings in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Our dentist, Dr. Bruno Giglio, and our team use the OralID® system to examine your smile for potential health issues. This system uses a special light to find abnormalities in the soft tissues of your mouth. This technology is completely noninvasive, and the screening takes just minutes to complete. By detecting these problems before they become visible to the unaided eye, we can perform a biopsy and help you plan the next step in your treatment. We will perform an OralID screening during your regular checkups, but you should call our office at 586-254-3860 if you notice something out of the ordinary with your smile.
Oral cancer includes cancer that affects the lips, cheeks, tongue and any soft tissue in the mouth. Every year, around 53,000 people are diagnosed with cancer in the United States. Those symptoms can mimic other oral health problems and even general health issues and can include:
- Rough spots in your mouth
- Lumps or bumps in your mouth
- Red, white or speckled patches in your mouth
- Problems swallowing
- Sore throat
- Numbness or pain in your face, neck or mouth
- Oral bleeding
- Problems with normal oral functions
- A change in the way your teeth come together or the fit of your dentures
- Ear pain
Oral cancer can be treated very effectively if it is caught in its early stages, which is why regular screenings with our dentist are extremely important. If you have a concern with the health of your smile or would just like some peace of mind, call our office for your appointment.