Routine Care

Oral Cancer Screening in Long Island City

Hunters Point Dentistry in Long Island City, led by Dr. Elena Cho, emphasizes the importance of Oral Cancer Screening as a vital part of dental health care. Recognizing that early detection is crucial, Dr. Cho and her team provide thorough screenings to identify signs of oral cancer at its earliest stages. This proactive approach is key in the fight against oral cancer, offering patients peace of mind and the potential for more effective treatment outcomes. At Hunters Point Dentistry, patients receive comprehensive oral cancer screenings, ensuring thorough examination and care in the hands of experienced professionals like Dr. Cho.

Benefits

Oral cancer screening offers several significant benefits:

  1. Early Detection: Early identification of oral cancer can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. Screenings can detect cancerous and precancerous conditions before symptoms become apparent.

  2. Potentially Life-Saving: Oral cancer can be aggressive, so early detection through screening can be life-saving.

  3. Simple and Quick: The screening is a quick, non-invasive process usually performed during a routine dental check-up.

  4. Peace of Mind: Knowing that you are being regularly screened can provide peace of mind about your oral health.

  5. Comprehensive Oral Health Check: Screening contributes to overall oral health care, as it’s an opportunity for your dentist to check for other oral health issues.

Regular oral cancer screenings are an essential component of dental health care and are particularly crucial for those at high risk due to factors like tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, a history of oral cancer, or significant sun exposure.

Procedure

  1. Visual Inspection: The dentist examines the face, neck, lips, inside of the nose, and oral cavity for any signs of cancer, such as swellings, bumps, patches of color, ulcerations, or other abnormal changes.

  2. Physical Examination: The dentist feels the tissues in your mouth to detect any lumps or other abnormalities. This may include palpation of the neck and jaw.

  3. Use of Special Tools: We use award-winning device called VELscope® to help identify abnormal cells or changes in the mouth.

  4. Discuss Findings: If any abnormalities are found, the dentist may recommend further diagnostic tests or refer you to a specialist.

instructions

  1. Before the Screening: No special preparation is needed. Just ensure your mouth is clean.

  2. During the Screening: Relax and follow the dentist’s instructions. You may be asked to move your tongue or adjust your mouth for better visibility.

  3. After the Screening: If no abnormalities are found, continue with regular screenings as advised. If there are concerns, follow up with the recommended steps.

Dr. Elena Cho's recommendation

As a provider of oral cancer screening in Long Island City, I, Dr. Elena Cho, strongly advocate for regular screenings as a critical part of your dental health regimen. Oral cancer screenings are quick, non-invasive, and can be life-saving. They are an integral part of any dental check-up, especially for individuals at higher risk due to factors like tobacco and alcohol use, or a history of oral cancer. Regular screenings can lead to early detection, significantly improving treatment success rates. I recommend that all patients, regardless of their risk level, undergo regular oral cancer screenings.