Oral Cancer Screening in Gambrills, MD

Oral cancer screenings: Early detection supports successful treatment, a lifetime of health

Bingham-Lester Dentistry partners with patients of all ages from across the greater Crofton and Gambrills, Maryland area to protect and sustain the health of their teeth and gums with a range of high-quality dental services. These services help to prevent damaging conditions, such as tooth decay and gum disease. However, Dr. Vickii Bingham-Lester also protects patients from other threats that can affect their oral health and overall health. These threats include oral cancer. With routine screening, these potentially life-threatening cancers can be detected early when they are easiest to treat successfully.

Dental examination for early detection of oral cancer in Gambrills, MD
Oral cancer affected areas in Gambrills, MD

What are oral cancers?

Here, we are referring to the abnormal growth of cells in the oral cavity. These cancers may develop on the lips, the tissues lining the inside of the mouth (oral mucosa), and the front-most portions of the tongue and palate/roof of the mouth. Cancers can also originate in the throat. They affect the soft palate, base of the tongue, tonsils, and the walls of the throat.

What are the symptoms of oral cancer?

When symptoms are present, they may include changes in the appearance of parts of the mouth, face, and throat. These changes include:

  • Sores that never heal
  • White or pink patches
  • Raise white or gray lesions
  • Swelling
  • Unexplained lumps and bumps

Oral cancer is also associated with changes that you can feel or changes that affect basic functions. These potential signs include:

  • Pain
  • Numbness
  • Hoarseness
  • Difficult or painful swallowing
  • The sensation of something being “caught” in your throat
  • Jaw stiffness
  • A persistently sore throat
  • Earaches
  • Changes in your speech
  • Slurring your words
Young woman with sore throat in Gambrills, MD

How do you screen for these cancers?

During regular exams or check-ups, Dr. Bingham-Lester will look for visible changes such as those mentioned above. Every visit is also an opportunity to stay up-to-date with your evolving health. It is crucial to inform Dr. Bingham-Lester about any problems you have experienced that extend beyond visible signs and symptoms. Our doctor may identify what cannot be detected by sight by touch. She will gently palpate or feel for any unusual or suspicious thickened tissues and other anomalies. X-rays can also aid in detecting abnormalities that may not be identified with a visual evaluation and by touch. We may refer you to other specialists for further assessment and testing.

Female dentist examining male patient in Gambrills, MD

Why is screening so important?

These cancers’ dangerous reputation precedes them. They tend to be diagnosed late into the progression of the disease — after the tumor has grown or metastasized beyond its original site. By regularly evaluating for these cancers, we support early detection. The cancer may be found at its localized stage before it has spread, or even earlier, as a pre-cancer. When treated at these early stages, oral and pharyngeal cancers of the mouth and throat have a high rate of successful treatment. Dr. Bingham-Lester prioritizes consistent, ongoing screenings and partnerships with patients to identify and minimize or eliminate their risk factors for developing these cancers.

What are the biggest risk factors for oral cancer?

Far and away, the top risks are smoking or the use of other tobacco products and excessive alcohol consumption. In fact, the American Cancer Society reports that those individuals who drink and smoke heavily have a 30 times higher risk of developing these cancers than those who do not smoke or drink.

Bingham-Lester Dentistry looks forward to supporting a lifetime of oral health and overall wellness in partnership with you. To schedule your appointment today, contact our team at (410) 885-6522.