Regular biopsy oral cancer screenings are essential for early detection, leading to more effective treatment outcomes.
TURN TO SPECIALISTS IN THE DETECTION OF ORAL CANCERS FOR ACCURATE DIAGNOSTICS THAT SUPPORT PROMPT TREATMENT
Dental professionals are on the front lines of detecting oral cancers early, when they are easiest to treat.
General dentists often turn to oral and maxillofacial surgeons like Dr. Bryan McLelland when further investigation is needed.
Our specialists at Liberty Oral & Facial Surgery in Spokane Valley, Washington, and Post Falls, Idaho, diagnose any unusual findings in the mouth, neck, or head.
These may include cysts, pre-cancerous lesions, and benign or malignant tumors.
In many cases, a biopsy or tissue sample is collected and analyzed to confirm a diagnosis.
As a result, we can create an immediate and effective treatment plan.
THE POWER OF EARLY DETECTION
Regular oral cancer screenings are vital.
Furthermore, more frequent exams may be necessary if you have risk factors like smoking, vaping, or tobacco use.
For example, symptoms that may require a biopsy include:
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White patches
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Red patches
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Persistent sores
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Thickened tissue
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Lumps
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Bumps
In addition, some behaviors and functional changes can signal cancer.
These include a chronic sore throat, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing.
As with other cancers, detecting tumors early allows for prompt treatment.
According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the 5-year survival rate is 84% when cancer is found early.
However, survival drops sharply once it spreads to lymph nodes or other organs—to 66% and 39%, respectively.
BIOPSY PROCESS
A biopsy is a simple, routine procedure.
First, one of our skilled surgeons applies a local anesthetic to numb the area.
This ensures comfort.
Next, if you feel anxious, we can discuss sedation options to help you relax.
Then, a small tissue sample is gently removed and examined under a microscope.
Finally, we review the results with you and recommend next steps.
Ultimately, we can only determine the best treatment after identifying the cause of your symptoms.
Please don’t wait for severe symptoms to appear.
Instead, contact Liberty Oral & Facial Surgery—the “first choice” in oral and maxillofacial expertise in the Inland Northwest—at 509-922-2273.
