Oral Cancer Screening in Waukesha, WI

Oral Cancer Screening Near Me

Kraklow Family Dentistry offers comprehensive oral health services for your entire family. One of the most important aspects of dental care is having a screening for oral cancer. Early detection of oral cancer ensures timely treatment. Dr. Donna Kraklow offers screenings for oral cancer to the residents in Waukesha, WI, and surrounding communities.

 

What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer may develop in your mouth or throat, and screening for the condition is a good way to identify issues early. Dr. Kraklow performs screenings for oral cancer as part of your routine dental examination. She checks your lips, tongue, throat, gums, palate, and inside of your cheeks. Signs of oral cancer include patches of white or red tissue and hard lumps. Oral cancer may also cause sores in your mouth that don’t heal, rough patches, and crusty areas.

 

Why Is an Oral Cancer Screening Important?

Because oral cancer may spread to other tissues, it is important to find it as early as possible. You may not know what to look for on your own, or you may not realize that a problem in your mouth is related to oral cancer. As a dental provider, Dr. Kraklow is uniquely positioned to detect the earliest signs of oral cancer and initiate treatment.

 

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

Screening for oral cancer takes about five minutes, and it is integrated into your regular dental exam. Dr. Kraklow carefully checks every area of your mouth. She may move your tongue to see the lower palate and underside of your tongue. The procedure is quick and comfortable.

 

How Often Should You Have an Oral Cancer Screening?

For patients who are at least 20 years old, Dr. Kraklow recommends screening for oral cancer is recommended every three years. For those who are over 40 years old, the screening is performed every year. Dr. Kraklow may recommend screening for oral cancer more often if you have certain risk factors, such as smoking or drinking alcohol on a regular basis.

 

Should You Do an Oral Cancer Screening at Home?

Dr. Kraklow recommends that you perform a basic screening for oral cancer at home. Check for lesions and areas of discoloration every day. Be sure to look at your tongue, cheeks, and throat. If you find anything unusual, call us to schedule an appointment. Dr. Kraklow will take a closer look at the area.

 

Where Can You Find an Oral Cancer Screening Near Me?

Kraklow Family Dentistry offers screenings for oral cancer and other dental services. Call us today to schedule an appointment.