Oral Cancer Screening

In Richardson, TX

Early detection saves lives. Dr. Morgan performs comprehensive oral cancer screenings at every visit in Richardson, examining tissues that most people never think about but could show life-threatening changes.

Request An Appointment call (972) 231-7104

WHY ORAL CANCER SCREENINGS MATTER

At every hygiene visit, we examine all the tissues of your mouth including gums, cheeks, lips, tongue, and jaw. Many patients are surprised at the large amount of surface area that we examine during an oral exam. It is just as important to have regular soft tissue screenings as it is to have a professional dental cleaning.

Early detection and treatment of oral cancer can significantly increase your chances of a quick and complete recovery. The American Cancer Society reports that about 7,000 deaths result from oral cancer out of 30,000 cases diagnosed annually. When caught early, the five-year survival rate is over 80%. When diagnosed late, that rate drops dramatically.

Oral cancer can develop in anyone, though certain risk factors increase your chances. The screening takes just a few minutes during your regular dental visit and could literally save your life.

WHO IS AT RISK?

Oral cancer can afflict anyone, although certain habits and conditions put some people at significantly higher risk than others.

Tobacco Use

Tobacco users put themselves at significantly higher risk than non-users. This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and especially chewing tobacco. Chewing tobacco has up to 3,000 different chemicals, including the same compounds used in pesticides and embalming fluid.

Heavy Alcohol Consumption

People who drink heavily have a much higher risk of oral cancer. The risk multiplies when tobacco and alcohol use are combined.

HPV Infection

Certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16, are linked to cancers of the throat, tongue, and tonsils. This type of oral cancer is increasing, especially in younger adults.

Age and Gender

Oral cancer risk increases with age, and men are twice as likely to develop it as women.

Comprehensive Soft Tissue Examination

During your screening at Ellem Dental, Dr. Morgan examines all the soft tissues in and around your mouth for signs of abnormality.

Lips and cheeks

Both the outer surfaces and the inside of your lips and cheeks are checked for unusual spots, sores, or texture changes.

Tongue

We examine the top, bottom, and sides of your tongue. The base of the tongue and back of the throat are also checked.

Floor of the mouth

The tissue under your tongue is a common location for oral cancer to develop.

Roof of the mouth (palate)

Both the hard and soft palate are examined for lesions or discoloration.

Jaw and lymph nodes

Dr. Morgan will feel your jaw and neck for lumps, swelling, or tenderness in the lymph nodes.

Gums

We look for changes in color, texture, or thickness of your gum tissue.

Request an appointment call (972) 231-7104

WARNING SIGNS TO WATCH FOR

Between your regular visits, watch for these warning signs and call us if you notice any of them.

Sores That Don't Heal

Any sore in your mouth, on your lips, or in your throat that doesn't heal within two weeks should be examined.

White or Red Patches

White patches (leukoplakia) or red patches (erythroplakia) on your gums, tongue, or lining of your mouth can be precancerous or cancerous.

Lumps or Thickening

Any lump, bump, or thickening in your cheek, tongue, or neck needs evaluation.

Persistent Pain or Numbness

Ongoing pain, tenderness, or numbness in your mouth, lips, or throat without an obvious cause should be checked.

Difficulty Swallowing or Chewing

Trouble swallowing, chewing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue can indicate a problem.

Chronic Sore Throat or Hoarseness

A sore throat or hoarse voice that lasts more than two weeks warrants examination.

Ear Pain

Persistent ear pain on one side can sometimes be a sign of oral cancer, especially if nothing appears wrong with the ear itself.

THE SCREENING PROCESS

Oral cancer screening is quick, painless, and performed at every regular dental visit.

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Step 1: Visual Examination

Dr. Morgan will look at all the tissues in and around your mouth using good lighting and sometimes magnification. She's looking for asymmetry, discoloration, sores, or texture changes.

Step 2: Physical Examination

She'll gently feel the tissues of your mouth, jaw, and neck to check for lumps, masses, or other abnormalities that aren't visible on the surface.

Step 3: Medical History Review

We'll discuss any changes in your health, new symptoms, or risk factors like tobacco or alcohol use.

Step 4: Follow-Up if Needed

If we suspect any unusual changes in your mouth tissue, we may suggest a biopsy and microscopic analysis by a qualified lab. This involves removing a small sample of tissue for testing.

DENTISTRY THAT feels different

At Ellem Dental, exceptional care is our standard. Discover how Dr. Morgan's advanced expertise, personalized service, and commitment to your comfort can transform not just your smile, but your entire dental experience.

Diagnostic Precision

We use advanced digital X rays and intraoral cameras with comprehensive screening protocols to detect problems early. This preventive approach helps identify issues before they become painful, complex, or costly.

Kois-Level Expertise

We're one of the few practices in Richardson with Kois Center-trained doctors, a distinction that represents hundreds of hours studying functional occlusion, esthetics, and evidence-based dentistry. This isn't just continuing education; it's mastery.

Concierge Experience

Experience truly personalized care with one-on-one consultations with Dr. Morgan and treatment from our team of experts. We don’t rush, and we don’t double-book. When you’re at ELLEM Dental, you’re always our number one priority.

Anxiety-Free Options

Dental fear keeps too many people from care. We offer multiple sedation levels and comfort amenities so your treatment happens on your terms, relaxed, informed, and in control.

Smile Test Drive

Our doctor and master ceramist will create a 3D model of your proposed new smile, so you can try in and visualize your new smile before committing to treatment.

Beautiful Office

From the moment you walk through our doors you’ll be met with the serene and spa-like atmosphere of ELLEM Dental. With individual treatment rooms you can sit back and relax in privacy and comfort during your visit.

Diagnostic Precision

We use digital imaging and comprehensive screening protocols that catch problems early. Think of it as preventive intelligence, identifying issues before they become painful or expensive.

Kois-Level Expertise

A Concierge Experience

Anxiety-Free Options

Dental fear keeps too many people from care. We offer multiple sedation levels and comfort amenities so your treatment happens on your terms, relaxed, informed, and in control.

Smile Test Drive

Our doctor and master ceramist will create a 3D model of your proposed new smile, so you can try in and visualize your new smile before committing to treatment.

Beautiful Office

FAQS

Common questions about oral cancer screening in Richardson, TX

How often should I be screened for oral cancer?

Every six months during your regular dental exam. If you have high-risk factors like tobacco use, Dr. Morgan might recommend more frequent screenings.

Does oral cancer screening hurt?

Not at all. The screening is completely painless. Dr. Morgan simply looks at and gently feels the tissues in and around your mouth.

What happens if something suspicious is found?

Dr. Morgan will explain what she sees and may recommend a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is sent to a lab for analysis. Not all suspicious areas turn out to be cancer, but it's important to check.

Have more questions?

Give us a call to speak with one of our friendly team members, and schedule a consultation with Dr. Morgan .

call (972) 231-7104

Don’t Wait to Feel Your Best

Experience dentistry reimagined with luxurious amenities, a relaxing spa-like atmosphere, and a dedicated team committed to your beautiful, healthy smile