Screening for oral cancer at Stoneycreek Village Dental saves lives

Although oral cancer is a deadly condition, the survival rate of its patients can be improved by 80-90% when the disease is caught early. Since mouth cancer symptoms are subtle until the condition is full-blown, routine oral cancer exams at a dental office can be a lifesaver. Dentists like Drs. Yohannes Melkie and Alan Chan are on the front line in discovering oral cancer before it advances.

While mouth cancer risk is common in smokers and patients with a history of alcohol abuse, the disease can strike patients outside these risk groups. Since everyone is at risk of oral cancer, it’s vital to schedule routine checkups, regardless of your age or lifestyle.

Common symptoms of oral cancer

While only a medical practitioner can tell whether your symptoms are related to mouth cancer, there are signs you can keep your eyes peeled to seek proper treatment. The common symptoms of mouth cancer include:

  • An abnormal lump
  • A mouth sore that doesn’t heal
  • Sore/red or white patches
  • Persistent hoarseness
  • Difficulty swallowing

Mouth cancer is deadly because it’s often diagnosed too late. You can be part of the solution by reducing the risk of being diagnosed with late-stage disease. Please schedule bi-annual appointments with Stoneycreek Village Dental for early mouth cancer detection.

What to expect during an oral cancer screening

Since mouth cancer is serious, you may think that the screening usually takes hours. You are mistaken. A typical mouth cancer exam won’t take more than 10 minutes! The first part of your screening is a visual examination of your face, lips, mouth, nose, and neck to detect abnormalities. Visually, your dentist can spot lumps, swellings, sores, and colour patches associated with mouth cancer. If you wear dental appliances, your dentist will request you remove them to have an unobstructed view of your mouth.

After a visual examination, a physical exam is necessary as not all lumps can be seen with the naked eye. Your dentist uses fingers to feel for lumps in your neck, mouth, and throat. If we find abnormalities, we will recommend a biopsy for an accurate diagnosis.

Detect oral cancer early with routine screenings

Due for an oral cancer screening in Fort McMurray, AB? Please dial (780) 666-7327 to schedule an appointment with Stoneycreek Village Dental for routine oral exams.

Dr. Alan Chan, best dentist near me

Dr. Alan Chan

Dr. Alan Chan opened Stoneycreek Village Dental three years ago to offer patients a comprehensive range of dental services while using current technology and techniques. The practice focuses on patients’ dental and overall health. Giving all patients a healthy smile and a positive dental experience is their goal.

Dr. Yohannes Melkie, DMD EAT Bio

Dr. Yohannes Melkie

Dr. Yohannes Melkie obtained his Biomedical Science Degree from the University of Ottawa and his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from the University of Western Ontario. He then moved to Fort Mac, where he has been practicing since. Continuous education is very important to him; he attends conferences and training sessions to stay current and provide his patients with the best quality treatment.

Dr. Melkie enjoys collaborating with patients to ensure their oral health is in good hands.

Dr. Cristina Rodrigo, DDS, near me

Dr. Cristina Rodrigo

Dr. Cristina Rodrigo graduated with her Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Science from Toronto Metropolitan University and completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry. She was the founder and President of the University’s Women in Dentistry.

Dr. Rodrigo practiced in Northern Ontario before moving to Fort McMurray. She is passionate about providing comprehensive dental care to patients in a gentle and empathetic manner.