Oral Cancer Screenings in Jackson, TN
Oral cancer is one of the most serious conditions we screen for at McLemore & McLemore, DDS — and when detected early, it is also one of the most treatable. Our oral cancer screenings are quick, painless, and an important part of protecting your overall health. Call us at (731) 424-2651 or contact us to schedule your appointment.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are Important
Oral cancer affects the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, nearly 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer each year. When oral cancer is detected in its earliest stages, the five-year survival rate is significantly higher than when it is found at a more advanced stage — making routine screening a potentially life-saving measure.
Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use (in any form), heavy alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure to the lips, a diet low in fruits and vegetables, and infection with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV). However, it is important to note that a significant number of oral cancer cases occur in people with no known risk factors — which is one of the most compelling reasons why regular screenings at McLemore & McLemore, DDS are so valuable for everyone.
What to Look For Between Appointments
Oral cancer often begins as changes in the tissue inside the mouth that may not be painful in the early stages. Signs to watch for include white or red patches inside the mouth; sores, lesions, or ulcers on the lips, tongue, or inside the cheeks that do not heal within two weeks; unexplained bleeding in the mouth; difficulty swallowing or a persistent sore throat; swelling in the jaw, face, or neck; and numbness, pain, or tenderness anywhere in the mouth or lips. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS at (731) 424-2651 promptly — do not wait for your next scheduled appointment.
How We Screen for Oral Cancer at McLemore & McLemore, DDS
An oral cancer screening at McLemore & McLemore, DDS is a non-invasive visual and physical examination of all the soft tissues in and around the mouth. Your dentist will carefully examine your lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, palate, and throat for any abnormal tissue changes — areas of discoloration, unusual texture, swelling, or lesions that may warrant further evaluation. The entire process takes only a few minutes and is performed as part of your routine dental cleaning and exam.
If any suspicious areas are identified, we will discuss our findings with you and determine appropriate next steps, which may include monitoring the area over a short period or referring you to a specialist for a biopsy. Early identification and prompt follow-up are critical for the best possible outcomes.
Protect yourself and your loved ones — contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS in Jackson, TN at (731) 424-2651 to schedule your next screening today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screenings
What is an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a visual and physical examination of the soft tissues of the mouth — including the lips, tongue, cheeks, palate, and throat — to check for any abnormal changes that could indicate the presence of cancer or pre-cancerous conditions. At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, screenings are performed as part of your routine dental exam.
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, we incorporate an oral cancer screening into every routine exam. Most patients should have a comprehensive exam at least once a year. Patients with higher risk factors — such as tobacco use or heavy alcohol consumption — may benefit from more frequent screening.
Is an oral cancer screening painful?
No. An oral cancer screening is completely non-invasive and painless. Your dentist simply examines the soft tissues of your mouth visually and with gentle palpation. The entire process takes only a few minutes.
What are the warning signs of oral cancer?
Warning signs include white or red patches inside the mouth; sores or ulcers that do not heal within two weeks; unexplained bleeding; swelling in the jaw or neck; difficulty swallowing; and numbness or pain in the mouth or lips. If you notice any of these signs, contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS at (731) 424-2651 promptly — do not wait for your next appointment.
Who is at risk for oral cancer?
While tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, HPV infection, and sun exposure are established risk factors, oral cancer also occurs in people with no known risk factors. This is why routine screening is recommended for all patients — not just those in high-risk categories.
What happens if something suspicious is found during my screening?
If our team identifies an area of concern, we will discuss our findings with you openly. Depending on the nature of the finding, we may recommend monitoring it over a short follow-up period or referring you to a specialist for a biopsy to determine whether further treatment is needed.
How do I schedule an oral cancer screening at McLemore & McLemore, DDS?
Oral cancer screenings are included as part of your routine cleaning and exam at McLemore & McLemore, DDS. Call us at (731) 424-2651 or visit our contact page to schedule your appointment in Jackson, TN.
