3210 Wilkinson Blvd, Ste. B-2, Charlotte, NC 28208
Early Oral Cancer Detection at Urban Family Dental
Oral cancer impacts many individuals each year, but early detection is crucial for effective treatment. At Urban Family Dental, located in Charlotte, NC, we provide thorough oral cancer screenings designed to help you stay ahead of potential issues.
Our skilled and compassionate team is committed to making your screening experience both comfortable and informative. We recognize that concerns about oral cancer can be distressing, but regular screenings and early intervention greatly enhance your chances of a favorable outcome.
Choosing Urban Family Dental means you are working with a team that puts your health first. With our advanced technology and empathetic care, we ensure each patient receives top-notch treatment. Take a proactive step in protecting your smile and overall well-being today.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Ever wondered about the components of your smile? Beyond your pearly whites and dazzling grin, your mouth and throat contain vital tissues like your tongue and cheeks. Sometimes, however, these areas can develop oral cancer—a serious condition that starts in the mouth or throat. It may present as a sore that doesn’t heal, a lump, or a persistent sore throat. The crucial factor in overcoming oral cancer is early detection. While it can affect anyone, regular check-ups and screenings at Urban Family Dental can help identify it before it progresses.
How to Address Oral Cancer
Addressing oral cancer may seem intimidating, but early detection and appropriate treatment offer hope. Here’s how we manage and treat it:
Early Detection and Diagnosis
The first step in combating oral cancer is early detection. Regular screenings at Urban Family Dental help identify suspicious changes in your mouth. Our expert team employs advanced technology to ensure a thorough and precise diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Once diagnosed, treatment plans are customized to fit each individual's needs. Here are the main approaches:
- Surgery
Surgery is often the primary treatment, involving the removal of cancerous tissue from the mouth or throat. Depending on the stage, this could mean removing a small section or, in more advanced cases, larger areas. Our skilled surgeons strive to remove the cancer while preserving as much function and appearance as possible. - Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. Typically used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer, this treatment is precisely focused on the affected area to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues. - Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It may be recommended alongside surgery and radiation, especially if the cancer has spread. Our team carefully manages your treatment to control side effects and achieve the best outcome. - Targeted Therapy
This newer treatment uses drugs to specifically target cancer cells while sparing normal cells. Targeted therapy can be highly effective for certain types of oral cancer and is an integral part of our comprehensive treatment approach.
Rehabilitation & Follow-Up
Recovery extends beyond treatment. At Urban Family Dental, we offer comprehensive rehabilitation services to help you regain strength, function, and quality of life. Our support includes:
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Speech and Swallowing Therapy
We provide therapy to assist with any changes affecting your ability to speak and eat, helping you adapt and recover. -
Nutritional Support
Our team ensures you maintain a balanced diet that supports your recovery and overall well-being. -
Emotional Support
Our counselors and support groups are available to help you manage the emotional aspects of your journey.
Why Choose Urban Family Dental for Oral Cancer Screening?
Selecting the right provider for your health is crucial. Here’s why Urban Family Dental in Charlotte, NC stands out for oral cancer screenings:
- Experienced and Compassionate Team
Our skilled dentists and hygienists are experts in oral cancer detection and prevention. They prioritize clear communication and patient comfort, ensuring a relaxed and reassuring experience. - Advanced Technology
We use cutting-edge technology for precise and efficient oral cancer screenings, enhancing the accuracy of our examinations. - Comfortable and Welcoming Environment
We understand dental visits can be stressful. Our clinic is designed to be inviting and calming, with amenities that make your visit as comfortable as possible. - Holistic Approach to Oral Health
We focus on preventive care and education, offering not only oral cancer screenings but also personalized advice on maintaining optimal oral hygiene and reducing risk factors.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
An oral cancer screening is a quick and painless procedure. Here’s what you can expect:
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Consultation
We’ll start with a discussion about your medical history, lifestyle habits, and any oral health concerns you may have. -
Visual Examination
Our dentist will carefully examine your mouth, lips, tongue, throat, and neck for signs of abnormalities, such as lumps, bumps, or discoloration. -
Palpation
The dentist will gently feel your cheeks, jaw, and lymph nodes to check for any unusual swelling or tenderness. -
Additional Tests (if needed)
If the initial exam reveals any concerns, additional tests like brush or tissue biopsies may be recommended. These are minimally invasive and will be explained to you in detail.
Understand Your Risks: Oral Cancer Awareness
While anyone can develop oral cancer, knowing your risk factors helps in taking preventive measures and seeking early detection:
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Tobacco Use
Smoking, chewing tobacco, and using smokeless cigarettes significantly increase your risk of oral cancer. -
Heavy Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol intake can elevate your risk. -
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Certain HPV strains are linked to oral cancer, especially oropharyngeal cancer (cancer at the back of the throat).> -
Sun Exposure
Damage from the sun can increase the risk of lip cancer. -
Family History
Having a close family member with oral cancer may slightly raise your risk.
Take Charge of Your Oral Health: Book Your Screening Today!
Don’t wait for symptoms to show up. Schedule your oral cancer screening at Urban Family Dental today and take a proactive step towards a healthier future. We offer an ideal approach to detection, convenient scheduling, and flexible payment options to make screenings accessible for everyone in Charlotte, NC. Let us help you safeguard your health and protect your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
New patients and emergency appointments welcome
