Stay Informed with Dr. Burgess this Oral Cancer Awareness Month
Early detection can make all the difference when it comes to oral cancer. At Madison Dental Care in Madison, AL, Dr. Terry Burgess and his dental team prioritize preventive care through thorough oral cancer screenings. Understanding what happens during these screenings can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for this important health check.
Ready to prioritize your oral health? Call Madison Dental Care at (256) 772-2626 to schedule your comprehensive dental exam, including an oral cancer screening. Our Madison dental office welcomes patients from Huntsville, Athens, and Decatur for complete dental care.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
Oral cancer affects thousands of Americans each year. When detected early, the five-year survival rate is significantly higher than when discovered at later stages. Regular screenings during dental checkups play a key role in early detection.
These screenings can identify potential issues before symptoms become apparent. Many patients with early-stage oral cancer don’t notice any problems, which highlights the importance of professional examinations.
The Madison Dental Care Difference
Dr. Terry Burgess brings over 30 years of dental excellence to every patient interaction. With more than 100 hours of continuing education annually, he stays current with the latest advances in dental technology and technique.
Our team creates a warm, stress-free environment for all procedures, including oral cancer screenings. We take the time to explain the process and answer any questions you have about your oral health.
Your health is our priority. Call (256) 772-2626 today to schedule with Dr. Burgess at our Madison location. We welcome patients from surrounding communities, including Huntsville, Athens, and Decatur, for complete dental care.
When to Get an Oral Cancer Screening Test
Most dental professionals recommend oral cancer screenings during your regular dental checkups. However, you might need more frequent screenings if you:
- Use tobacco products
- Consume alcohol heavily
- Have a history of oral cancer
- Have been diagnosed with HPV
- Have significant sun exposure (which can affect lip cancer risk)
The Oral Cancer Screening Process with Dr. Burgess: What to Expect
Visual Examination
Your screening begins with a thorough visual examination of the oral cavity. Dr. Burgess will check your:
- Face, neck, lips, and mouth for asymmetry or abnormalities
- Cheeks and the roof of your mouth
- Tongue and under tongue
- Back of your throat
- Gums and surrounding tissues
The doctor looks for unusual spots, patches, swelling, or color changes that might indicate a problem.
Physical Examination
After the visual check, Dr. Burgess will:
- Gently feel your jaw, neck, and lymph nodes for unusual lumps
- Touch areas inside your mouth to check for unusual textures or firm spots
- Ask you to swallow during the examination of your throat
This hands-on approach helps identify issues that might not be visible to the eye.
Advanced Screening Techniques
Dr. Burgess may employ the following detection-enhancing techniques:
- Special lights: Abnormal tissues may appear different under specialized oral cancer screening lights
- Dental dyes: Oral cancer screening dyes can help highlight abnormal cells
- Oral cytology: If needed, a simple brush test may collect cells for closer examination
What Happens After the Screening
Most screenings show no cause for concern. If Dr. Burgess notices anything unusual, he might:
- Ask you to return for a follow-up examination in a few weeks
- Perform a simple tissue sample collection
- Refer you to a specialist for further evaluation
Finding something abnormal doesn’t necessarily mean cancer is present. Many oral abnormalities are benign, but proper evaluation ensures appropriate care.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch for Between Screenings
Between dental appointments, be aware of these potential warning signs:
- Persistent sores that don’t heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches in your mouth
- Pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue
- A change in how your teeth fit together
- Lumps or thickening of tissues in your mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Madison Dental Care promptly at (256) 772-2626.
Don’t Wait, Schedule an Oral Cancer Screening Near You!
Your oral health is connected to your overall well-being. Regular oral cancer screenings in Madison take just a few minutes but can make a lifetime of difference. At Madison Dental Care, we make these essential health checks comfortable and thorough.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Call Madison Dental Care at (256) 772-2626 to schedule your comprehensive exam with Dr. Burgess. Our convenient Madison location serves patients throughout North Alabama, including Huntsville, Athens, and Decatur.
Early oral cancer detection saves lives. Make oral cancer screening part of your regular dental care routine with Dr. Terry Burgess and the caring team at Madison Dental Care.