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Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral Cancer Detection & Treatment | General & Family Dentistry | Waterville, ME

When cancer occurs in the inside of the mouth, it’s known as oral cancer, and sometimes oral cavity cancer. It’s a very serious health issue and one that can be treated effectively if diagnosed early and taken seriously.

 

Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer can occur anywhere in the oral cavity, including:

  • Tongue
  • Gums
  • Lips
  • Inner Cheeks
  • Roof of the Mouth
  • Under The Tongue (Floor of the Mouth)

 

Have a spot that’s worrying you? If you suspect it could be a larger problem than a temporary sore spot, it’s a good idea to make an appointment here at Waterville Family Dentistry.

 

 

Oral Cancer: Symptoms & Diagnosis

First, your local Waterville, Maine, dentist will look for other possible causes for the sore spot, including issues with certain teeth and/or an infection.

Signs & Symptoms of Mouth Cancer:

  • Lip/Mouth Sore Does Not Heal
  • Abnormal Growth Inside Mouth
  • White and/or Red Patch(es) Inside Mouth
  • Mouth Pain
  • Ear Pain
  • Loose Teeth
  • Difficulty Chewing & Swallowing

Do I Have Oral Cancer?

On a scientific level, oral cancer is caused when a cell’s DNA mutates so that it continues to grow instead of dying off as would a healthy cell. Together, these mutating cells may form a tumor that can spread inside the mouth and to other parts of the body.


The  most common area for mouth cancer are the inside tissues of your lips and mouth. How these cells cause oral cancer isn’t completely known at this point, but we can identify risk factors that may make it more likely, including:

  • Alcohol & Drug Use
  • All Types of Tobacco Use
  • Too Much Exposure To Sunlight
  • Compromise Immune System
  • STD: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) 

There is no one sure way to fight cancer of the mouth, but it is known that removing multiple risk factors can only help.


It’s pretty straightforward: don’t abuse alcohol, don’t use tobacco of any kind, don’t get too much sun, and make sure to come to Waterville Family Dentistry for your regular six-month dental checkups.

What Our Patients Are Saying About Their Experience.

A Verified 5 Star Rating on Google

5/5
Under new leadership and great improvements. Dr Choe is great, quick, and does a great job explaining things.​
Jared B.
5/5
Dr. Choe and the rest of his team are friendly and knowledgeable. The service has been fantastic at all of my visits. I would highly recommend booking an appointment!
Katherine L.
5/5
I was very impressed with everyone at the office. They were so sweet and very welcoming! It’s always nice to go to a dentist where they care about your well being. I highly recommend Waterville Family Dentistry!
Salem H.
5/5
Dr.Choe was amazing! 10/10 would recommend! This office gives you many options in order for you to get your prime dental care, without making you feel pressured into anything. Dr. Choe goes makes sure you understand your own treatment plan, and treats you with genuine kindness. I felt at home here and would highly recommend! I will be coming back for further treatment & cleanings! Staff was kind as well, and collaborated to make my experience as smooth as possible.
Kelsey T.
5/5
I am 53, and I have experienced many dentists in my lifetime. I have hated all of my experiences, so this review is a BIG DEAL because I had to go to Dr. Choe to get 3 fillings done, and he fixed the problem very expediently and with empathy to my nervousness, and I left feeling extremely happy with his results! Dr. Choe is the best dentist I have ever had to see, and I am forlorn that it took so long in my life to actually have a pleasant experience.
Paul B.

Your first visit won’t be your last.

We look forward to having you join our family here at Waterville Family Dentistry!