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Oral Cancer Screening
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GENERAL DENTISTRY
Oral Cancer Screening
According to the American Cancer Society’s recent estimates, approximately 51,540 people in the US will be diagnosed with oral cancer and 10,030 people will die of these cancers each year. That is about 6 people diagnosed every hour, and one life is taken every hour. And according to the Oral Cancer Foundation, "Historically the death rate associated with this cancer is particularly high not because it is hard to discover or diagnose, but due to the cancer being routinely discovered late in its development."
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When diagnosed in its early stages, oral cancer is highly treatable. A simple and painless oral cancer screening could literally save your life! You can expect an oral cancer screening to consist of a thorough visual and physical examination to look for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth, including abnormal patches of white or red, or certain lesions.
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An oral cancer screening is not just a medical exam, but an opportunity for you to speak with your dentist about any fears or concerns, or ask for advice about reducing your risk. At Weekend Emergency Dental, we always encourage our patients to be open about any oral health concerns so that we can ensure that all your dental experiences with us are comfortable, pleasant, and beneficial to you and your oral health.
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
A risk factor is anything that increases an individual’s chance of developing cancer. Knowing your risk factors and talking about them with your dentist can help you make more informed lifestyle and health choices. The most common risk factors for oral cancer include:
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Tobacco users of any kind, including cigarettes, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, etc.
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Heavy alcohol use
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Family history of oral cancer
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History of high sun exposure without using appropriate sunscreen, which increases the risk of lip cancer.
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Those with HPV (Human papillomavirus)
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Poor diet, nutrition, or oral hygiene
In addition, men are approximately twice as likely as women to be diagnosed with oral cancer, though this could be due to lifestyle habits that are perhaps more common in men than women rather than due to gender (such as heavy tobacco and alcohol use). Approximately two-thirds of individuals diagnosed with oral cancer in the US are over the age of 55 as well. Though there is no way to completely prevent the disease, you may be able to significantly lower your risk by adopting healthy lifestyle choices. And remember, as, with all diseases, early detection is key to more varied and effective treatment options!
Early detection is the single most critical factor in successfully treating oral cancer and soft tissue abnormalities before they become severe or life-threatening. Located at 209 S O'Connor Rd #101 in Irving, TX (75060), Weekend Emergency Dental provides comprehensive, non-invasive oral cancer screenings conducted by experienced practitioners, Dr. Kwon and Dr. Choi. Operating on both Saturdays and Sundays, our modern practice thoroughly evaluates mucosal tissues, the tongue, lips, gums, palate, throat, and neck for subtle signs of precancerous lesions, unexplained sores, discolored patches, or abnormal swelling.
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As an independent, fee-for-service practice, we prioritize direct doctor-patient preventive care free from insurance network restrictions or coverage delays. While we do not accept PPO insurance plans directly, our administrative staff provides detailed, itemized superbills that you can submit to your insurance carrier for potential out-of-network reimbursement. To ensure preventive screenings and any necessary follow-up diagnostic care remain accessible for families across Irving, Las Colinas, Arlington, West Dallas, and Grand Prairie, we offer flexible pay-over-time options through four top financing partners: Cherry, Sunbit, CareCredit, and Alphaeon.
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Whether you are experiencing persistent oral pain, unexplained mouth sores, or simply want peace of mind during a routine checkup, Dr. Kwon and Dr. Choi deliver meticulous evaluations using intraoral camera technology and tactile examinations. You can also pair your screening with our exclusive Emergency Patient Visit Special for complete weekend diagnostic care. Protect your health by scheduling a weekend oral cancer screening in Irving today—call 972-457-0159 or walk into our clinic during weekend operating hours.
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Q. What happens during an oral cancer screening at Weekend Emergency Dental in Irving, TX?
Dr. Kwon and Dr. Choi perform a quick, painless visual and tactile inspection of your lips, tongue, cheek lining, gums, palate, and neck to check for lesions, red or white patches, or unusual lumps. Screenings are available every Saturday and Sunday at 209 S O'Connor Rd #101 in Irving, TX.
Q. Does Weekend Emergency Dental accept PPO insurance for oral cancer screenings?
Weekend Emergency Dental is an independent fee-for-service clinic and does not contract directly with PPO insurance networks. However, we provide patients with itemized superbills for potential out-of-network insurance reimbursement and offer flexible pay-over-time financing through Cherry, Sunbit, CareCredit, and Alphaeon.
Q. How much does an oral cancer screening cost without insurance in Irving, TX?
Screening costs are affordable and can be paired with our Emergency Patient Visit Special. To help manage treatment expenses, Weekend Emergency Dental offers fast financing approvals through Cherry, Sunbit, CareCredit, and Alphaeon. Call 972-457-0159 to book your appointment.
