Oral Cancer Screening

The National Cancer Institute estimates that about 40,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with mouth or throat cancer in 2012.

Your mouth is part of the oral cavity, which also includes your lips, cheek lining, gums, front part of your tongue, floor
of the mouth beneath the tongue and the hard palate that makes up the roof of your mouth. The throat (pharynx) starts at the soft part of the roof of your mouth and continues back into your throat. It includes the back section of your tongue as well as the base where the tongue attaches to the floor of your mouth.

During your dental visit, your dentist can talk to you about your health history and examine these areas for signs of mouth and/or throat cancer. Regular visits to your dentist can improve the chances that any suspicious changes in your oral health will be caught early, at a time when cancer can be treated more easily.

SYMPTOMS OF MOUTH OR THROAT CANCER CAN INCLUDE:

Sores that bleed easily or do not heal

A thick or hard spot or lump

A roughened or crusted area

Numbness, pain or tenderness

A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down

Make sure to tell your dentist about any problems you have when chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving your tongue or jaw.

At Woodyard Dental Care in Paducah, KY, Dr. Jonathan Woodyard will include a thorough oral cancer screening during your comprehensive exam.

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WHY PEOPLE LOVE WOODYARD DENTAL CARE

Absolutely wonderful experience. Dr. Woodyard explains everything very well and is a true professional. The whole staff is very accommodating and caring.

Jay S

Dr. Woodyard has been my general dentist for more than 10 years and he’s always been so concerned and professional. He is up to date on all the newest innovative treatments. He has done several crowns for me and I was able to get it all done in one day since they were made with the latest technology in house by Dr. Woodyard. I would highly recommend him for all dental needs.

Melissa W

Best dentist I've been to! Very professional operation in all respects. Love that Dr. Woodyard does the majority of usual procedures right in house -- including crowns and root canals. Getting a crown in one visit is truly amazing. Mary is a wonderful hygienist with a solid knowledge of her area of expertise. You won't be disappointed!