Supporting the health of your mouth and your “total health” with proactive oral cancer screenings
Nearly 1,500 new cases of oral and pharyngeal cancer will be diagnosed in Illinois this year. While that number may seem alarming, cancers of the mouth and throat—like many others—have a high cure rate when detected early. These cancers become far more difficult to treat once they have spread to other areas of the body.
At City Family Dental in Bolingbrook, Dr. Sneha Naik understands the critical role early detection plays in protecting both your oral health and overall well-being. That’s why we make oral cancer screenings a top priority during your routine visits—because safeguarding your smile means more than just clean teeth.
How do you screen for these cancers?
Dr. Naik carefully checks for abnormalities or warning signs that could indicate precancerous or cancerous lesions. She identifies these potential concerns through both visual inspection and touch, a method known as palpation. Screenings are seamlessly and conveniently incorporated into your routine checkups.
We also take note of—and discuss—any changes since your last visit. Our team continuously monitors not just your teeth and gums, but all areas of your mouth. This comprehensive approach allows us to detect and respond to any concerning developments early, ensuring your oral health is consistently protected.
What changes might raise concerns?
Some of the most common signs include red sores that develop on the horseshoe-shaped floor of the mouth, as well as on the front and sides of the tongue. We may also observe whitish or pinkish patches that fail to heal, or persistent sores that bleed easily. Leukoplakia, characterized by white or gray raised lesions that feel firm, can appear anywhere in the mouth. If Dr. Naik detects any suspicious lumps, bumps, or thickened tissues in your mouth, neck, or face, she may recommend further evaluation.
Can you always see and feel these problems?
Our advanced digital imaging and diagnostic technologies help detect abnormalities that cannot be seen with the naked eye or felt by touch. It’s important to understand that cancers don’t always present as visible changes, lumps, or swelling. Please contact us immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Unexplained pain or numbness
- Frequent sore throats or hoarseness
- Sudden difficulty swallowing
- Slurred speech or other changes in speech
- A persistent sensation of something stuck in your throat
- Ongoing ear pain
- Jaw stiffness
How often should I get screened?
Great question! Our approach always centers on your individual needs, as Dr. Naik and our team pride ourselves on delivering personalized care. We take the time to get to know you, allowing us to identify any risk factors that may require more frequent screenings. These risks for oropharyngeal cancers include smoking, vaping, nicotine-containing products, excessive alcohol use, sun/UV exposure, and nutritional challenges. In fact, approximately three-fourths of these cancers are linked to modifiable behaviors. At City Family Dental, we work closely with you to reduce or modify these risks. It’s truly rewarding for us to support the health of your smile and your overall well-being!
Contact our Bolingbrook team, serving Plainfield, Aurora, and Naperville, IL, at (630) 489-6323 today.
