No one wants to hear the word “cancer,” but at A Beautiful Smile, we want to inform and educate our patients so they can take charge of their health. Oral cancer, when caught early, has several successful treatment options available. The key is getting a screening at the first sign of a problem. Here are five signs that you should make an appointment with our team for an oral cancer screening.

1. Cold Sores That Don’t Heal

When is a cold sore more than just a cold sore? The answer to that question depends on if the cold sore is going away or lingering for weeks and even months. This condition, though common, can also be a sign of oral cancer. Schedule a screening if you have a cold sore that just isn’t getting better.

2. Lumps or Thickening

Lumps or thickening of the skin on the lips or cheeks can also indicate oral cancer. This isn’t a normal sign of aging. Similarly, unexplained swelling of the mouth or jaw can be a sign. If you notice this, get a screening right away.

3. Difficulty Swallowing

While difficulty swallowing can stem from a number of potential causes, it can indicate cancer near the back of the mouth or in the throat. Regardless of the cause, you should get this looked at to improve your quality of life.

4. Loose Teeth

Adult teeth should not become loose. While bone loss due to aging can cause this, so can oral cancer. Both require a visit to the dentist in Jacksonville, NC.

5. White Patches

Finally, areas of white patches in the mouth are signs of an underlying health issue, and one potential issue could be cancer. Again, this requires a screening appointment to figure out the cause.

If you’re noticing any of these signs and symptoms, contact Dr. Gina Mancini at A Beautiful Smile to schedule a screening appointment.