Oral Cancer Screening in Taos, NM

Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, cheeks, tongue, floor and roof of the mouth, throat and sinuses. While it is often treatable when caught early, many cases go undiagnosed until they reach more advanced stages. This delay in detection can lead to more aggressive treatment and a lower chance of recovery. At Northern New Mexico Dental Center, we are committed to early identification of oral cancer through regular screenings during your routine dental exams. These screenings are a simple yet powerful way to help protect your long-term health.

Routine screenings for oral cancer are a critical component of preventive care. Early signs of oral cancer may be subtle and painless, which means they can go unnoticed without a professional exam. Our dentists and team are trained to recognize the early warning signs of cancerous and precancerous conditions. By incorporating screenings into your regular checkups, we can identify suspicious areas before they worsen, improving your chance of successful treatment.

Common Warning Signs of Oral Cancer

Some symptoms of oral cancer may be mistaken for other minor issues, so it is important to remain alert to changes in your mouth and throat. You should contact our office if you notice any of the following:

• Persistent sores in the mouth, on the lips or face that do not heal within two weeks
• Red, white or mixed red-and-white patches inside the mouth
• A lump, thickening or rough spot on the gums, tongue or cheek
• Difficulty speaking, chewing or swallowing
• Numbness, pain or tenderness in the mouth or neck
• Chronic sore throat or the sensation of something stuck in the throat
• Changes in how your teeth or dentures fit together

These symptoms do not always indicate cancer, but they should be evaluated by a professional to rule out serious concerns.