Ledbetter Family Dental Care, Your Smile Starts Here. Dr. Les Ledbetter DDS Services General Dentistry Routine Check ups, Teeth Cleaning, X-Rays, Fillings, Filling, Crowns, Crown, Bridges, Bridge, Cosmetic Dental Care, Teeth Whitening, Veneers, Bonding, Specialty Dentistry, Extractions, Root Canal, Complete and Partial Dentures, Dental Implant, Implants, Treatment of Gum Disease, Pediatric Childrens Dentistry. Dental Team April Hawkins, Sunny Wells, Jammey Howard, Leah Aldridge, Sheri Morris, Gina Lawson, Debbie Robinson. Home Offices in Ardmore and Wynnewood OK. Contact us at 580-223-4477 or 405-665-2220

Ledbetter Family Dental Care

DR. LES LEDBETTER, D.D.S.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral Cancer Screening Ardmore

Conservative, Honest Dental Care For You

At Ledbetter Family Dental Care in Ardmore, we prioritize your dental health and overall well-being. One of the most critical services we provide is oral cancer screenings in Ardmore. Early detection of oral cancer can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Led by Dr. Les Ledbetter, our experienced team is committed to offering thorough and compassionate care to ensure that our patients remain healthy and informed. Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, and the back of the throat. A regular oral cancer screening in Ardmore is essential for detecting abnormal changes in the oral tissues, and we recommend that everyone include this vital examination as part of their routine dental care.

Why Are Oral Cancer Screenings Important?

Oral cancer screenings in Ardmore are crucial because early detection can be life-saving. Oral cancer is often painless in its early stages and can go unnoticed until it becomes more severe. Regular screenings by a dental professional can help identify suspicious areas before they progress, allowing for early intervention and treatment.

 

Thousands of people in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral cancer each year, and early detection can make all the difference. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, early diagnosis significantly increases survival rates. Oral cancer screenings at Ledbetter Family Dental Care in Ardmore are quick, painless, and essential for maintaining overall health.

Oral Cancer Screening Ardmore

What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening in Ardmore

Oral Cancer Screening ArdmoreAt Ledbetter Family Dental Care, our oral cancer screenings in Ardmore are quick and noninvasive. Dr. Les Ledbetter examines your mouth, throat, and surrounding areas visually and tactilely for any signs of abnormalities.

  1. Visual Examination: Dr. Ledbetter will carefully examine your mouth, lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and throat for any visible signs of cancer. This exam includes checking for unusual red or white patches, sores, lumps, or other abnormalities that may indicate the presence of cancerous or precancerous tissues.
  2. Tactile Examination: During this part of the exam, Dr. Ledbetter will gently feel your neck, jaw, and oral tissues to check for lumps or unusual masses that could be signs of cancer.
  3. Advanced Technology: In some cases, Dr. Ledbetter may use specialized equipment, such as a VELscope or similar device, to help detect areas of abnormal tissue that might not be visible to the naked eye. This technology uses a special light to highlight tissue changes, allowing for more precise detection.
  4. Biopsy Referral: If Dr. Ledbetter detects any suspicious areas during the screening, he may recommend a biopsy for further analysis. This biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample for laboratory testing to determine whether cancerous or precancerous cells are present.

Who Should Get Oral Cancer Screenings?

We recommend oral cancer screenings in Ardmore for everyone, but certain individuals may be at higher risk and should be especially vigilant about regular screenings. Risk factors for oral cancer include:

  • Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless tobacco products increases the risk of oral cancer.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use is another significant risk factor for oral cancer.
  • HPV Infection: The human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16, has been linked to an increased risk of oral cancers, especially those affecting the throat.
  • Age: The risk of developing oral cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 40.
  • Sun Exposure: Excessive exposure to the sun, especially without protection, can increase the risk of cancer on the lips.
  • Family History: A family history of cancer can also increase your risk of developing oral cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can present itself in many different ways. While not all of these symptoms necessarily indicate cancer, it’s essential to have any concerning signs evaluated by a dental professional. Common symptoms of oral cancer include:

  • Persistent sores in the mouth that do not heal
  • Lumps or thickened areas in the oral tissues
  • Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
  • Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing or a feeling that something catches in the throat
  • Hoarseness or persistent sore throat
  • Numbness or pain in the mouth or lips
  • Loose teeth without any dental cause

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they persist for more than two weeks, it’s essential to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Les Ledbetter.

How Often Should You Get an Oral Cancer Screening in Ardmore?

At Ledbetter Family Dental Care, we recommend that all patients receive an oral cancer screening in Ardmore at least once a year, typically during their routine dental cleaning and exam. However, if you have risk factors for oral cancer or if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned earlier, it’s essential to get screened more frequently. Dr. Ledbetter will work with you to develop a personalized screening schedule based on your individual needs.

 Prevention Tips for Oral Cancer

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent oral cancer, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:

 

  • Quit Smoking: Avoiding all forms of tobacco is one of the most effective ways to lower your risk of oral cancer.

  • Limit Alcohol Consumption: Reducing your alcohol intake can significantly decrease your chances of developing oral cancer.

  • Use Sun Protection: Apply lip balm with SPF outdoors to protect your lips from harmful UV rays.

  • Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits can help detect issues early and keep your mouth healthy.

  • Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can lower the risk of many types of cancer, including oral cancer.

  • Vaccinate Against HPV: If eligible, consider the HPV vaccine, which can protect against strains of the virus linked to oral cancer.

Regular screenings are still essential even if you don’t fall into one of these high-risk categories. Oral cancer can affect anyone, and early detection can make a critical difference in treatment outcomes.

Expert Oral Cancer Screening in Ardmore

We can protect your oral and overall health at Ledbetter Family Dental Care in Ardmore. Our comprehensive oral cancer screenings can help detect any issues early, giving you the best chance for successful treatment. Don’t wait—schedule your screening with Dr. Les Ledbetter today and take a proactive step toward maintaining your health.

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