Oral Cancer Screening in Syosset, NY

Barkoff Dental is not only dedicated to making your smile the best it can be, we are also committed to your overall health and wellness. Our holistic approach to dental care includes a thorough oral cancer screening as part of your regular dental exam. Like many types of cancer, oral cancer can be easily treated in its early stages, but can become life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

Our Screening System

Our entire team is trained in a simple, quick screening that involves an examination of your oral cavity to detect cancerous and precancerous conditions. Besides a visual examination of your mouth, we will also feel the tissue of your mouth and throat to detect any abnormalities.

In addition, Dr. Barkoff uses the Indentafi Oral Cancer Screening System. Dr. Barkoff will wear a pair of special multi-wavelength filtered glasses to examine the tissues of your mouth, first in concentrated white light and then through a violet filter. If any abnormalities are suspected, Dr. Barkoff will switch to an amber filter for confirmation.

If Dr. Barkoff confirms the existence of suspicious tissue, you will likely need a biopsy. This is the only way to know for sure whether oral cancer is present. If the biopsy reveals the presence of oral cancer, we will create a personalized plan to treat it.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Although these symptoms may be caused by many factors, it is important to schedule an appointment to rule out the possibility of oral cancer:

•         Red or white spots or sores anywhere in the oral cavity
•         A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
•         A lump, thickening, or rough spot
•         Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
•         Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue

Preventing Oral Cancer

Besides regular screenings, there are a number of steps you can take to help prevent oral cancer:

•         Avoid tobacco products
•         Drink alcohol only in moderation
•         Maintain a healthy, balanced diet
•         Limit sun exposure and always wear UV-A/B blocking sunscreen on you skin and lips