How oral cancer screening at our office saves lives

Tooth Architect Dental Care was built on a solid foundation of preventative dentistry. Few dental services demonstrate the power of this proactive approach, quite like oral cancer screenings. 

The professional screening 

This evaluation of the oral cavity (mouth) and tissues of the throat is essential for all patients in Sandy Springs, Georgia, and beyond — regardless of traditionally stated risk factors such as smoking and tobacco use. Notably, the number of mouth and throat cancers linked to HPV (human papillomavirus) has risen dramatically over the past 20 years. 

We partner with patients to minimize any “modifiable” risk factors for developing these cancers. Screening is pivotal in all cases because these cancers have high survival rates when detected and addressed early. As the cancer spreads to other parts of the face, lymph nodes, and distant organs, the survival rates drop accordingly. 

Dr. Talebi strives to catch cancers as early as possible. During your screening, which can be conducted at the same time as a comprehensive “check-up” and professional teeth cleaning, Dr. Talebi is looking for any signs of precancerous and cancerous lesions. These potential signs may be isolated during a visual inspection or by palpating or feeling an area inside the mouth, face, or neck. It is also critical to share any changes or concerns that you have noticed with Dr. Talebi since your last visit. Altogether, these possible red flags include: 

  • Persistent sores that don’t seem to heal or get better
  • Chronic oral pain
  • Lumps or thickened tissue on the lips, cheeks, and mouth
  • Discoloration, such as white or red patches 
  • Lumps or masses in the throat or on the neck 
  • Unexplainable swelling
  • Newfound problems with how dentures or other oral appliances fit
  • Shifting or loose teeth 
  • A feeling that there is something “stuck” in your throat
  • Difficulty with or pain when chewing food
  • Problems with swallowing 
  • Persistent hoarseness and sore throats
  • Habitual earaches
  • Stiffness or limited mobility (of the jaw, tongue)
  • A numb tongue, lip, or other areas of the mouth

For what Dr. Talebi cannot isolate by touch or with her eyes alone, she may identify with the use of advanced onsite diagnostics. Technologies like digital x-rays render clear images that can be enlarged and adjusted to view from various angles. These aids help our team pinpoint pre-cancers and cancers early into the disease process before they may cause noticeable and visible changes to the patient. As needed, Dr. Talebi collaborates with a team of experienced specialists for further diagnosis of any suspicious area.  

Do not “sit” on concerning changes. Call us today at (404) 666-8066. Tooth Architect Dental Care of Sandy Springs, GA, also welcomes “walk-ins.” So, feel free to stop by!