Oral Cancer Screenings in Missouri City, TX
Every year, thousands of people in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral cancer. That’s why at Alonso Family Dental, we take a proactive approach to prevent the serious complications of this condition. Dr. Alonso performs oral cancer screenings in Missouri City, TX, using Oral I.D. equipment by Forward Science. This innovative technology uses fluorescent light to highlight any unusual growths or abnormal tissues in the oral cavity. With early detection, we can prevent many serious complications of oral cancer.
Request An Appointment
Why Should You Get Regular Oral Cancer Screenings
In many cases, oral cancer develops without any obvious symptoms in its early stages. Patients may not be aware of it until the disease has already advanced. At that stage, you may need more invasive treatments to manage the disease.
For this reason, our Missouri City team recommends routine oral cancer screenings, especially for those with higher risk factors, such as smoking, tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, or a family history of oral cancer. Based on your individual health and lifestyle, Dr. Alonso will suggest how often you should get screened for oral cancer.
What Are The Warning Signs of Oral Cancer
Being aware of the early signs of oral cancer can help you seek dental care at the right time. Some of the common signs of this condition include:
- Persistent sores or ulcers in the mouth that don’t heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or inner cheeks
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Persistent pain in the tongue, jaw, throat, or ears
- Irregular lumps or growths in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- Numbness in the face, lips, or mouth
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an oral cancer screening at our Missouri City clinic as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can help prevent various complications.
For More Information
What Happens During Oral Cancer Screenings at Our Practice in Missouri City
Oral cancer screenings are generally quick and comfortable. We will start by reviewing your medical history and asking a few questions about your lifestyle habits to assess the risk factors. Next, Dr. Alonso will perform a detailed clinical exam of your mouth and surrounding areas. We will look for any irregularities such as sores, lesions, or unusual growths.
After a visual exam, we will gently palpate the areas in your oral cavity, jaw, and neck to check for abnormal lumps. If we detect anything suspicious, our dentist may recommend a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis.
Most Trusted Dentists in Missouri City, TX
Words from our smiling patients
We believe that the best way to measure our success is through the satisfaction of our patients, which is why we are proud to share their experiences.
We have been going to this dental office for many years. I absolutely love the personal experience and how everyone is always willing to assist. Having an honest family dentist was very important for us and we found our place! They always share all the details for understanding....
Nuria C.
Katelynn is the best! She makes it so I can keep up with my dental care without being absolutely terrified! She does a great job and is so kind and patient. I have come a long way since my first visit there as I am not nearly as scared as I used to be. Would highly recommend...
Lori E.
Marcy and Dr. Alonso are fantastic! Marcy is absolutely the best—she’s extremely thorough and a great conversationalist. My teeth have never felt so clean! Dr. Alonso is also incredibly detailed and informative. I felt well taken care of from start to finish. Highly recommend!
Melinda S.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should get screened for oral cancer?
We recommend these exams for patients of all ages. However, they are especially important for those with potential risk factors.
How long does an oral cancer screening take?
An oral cancer screening at our practice generally takes under 5 minutes. It is comfortable and relatively pain-free.
How often should I get oral cancer screenings?
Screenings are included during your routine dental checkups, usually every six months. For those in the high-risk category, we may schedule more frequent exams.
Book Your Appointment Today
If you notice or feel any unusual changes in your mouth, visit our practice for oral cancer screenings in Missouri City, TX, today. Call us at (281) 778 8400 to schedule an appointment.