Oral cancer is a serious health concern affecting thousands of Americans annually. At Wilhite Plano Dentist, we are committed to the early detection of oral cancer through our advanced Oral ID cancer screening technology. Led by Dr. David Wilhite, our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to ensure the health and well-being of our patients in Plano, Texas.
Understanding Oral Cancer and Its Risks
Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, and gums. It often presents as red or white patches, persistent sores, or lumps that do not heal. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment and recovery. Several factors increase the risk of developing oral cancer, including tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, a history of high sun exposure, and the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV). Regular screenings are essential, especially for those with heightened risk factors.
What Is Oral ID Cancer Screening?
Oral ID is an innovative, FDA-approved screening technology that uses fluorescence visualization to detect abnormalities in the mouth. This advanced device allows our team to identify early signs of cancer that may not be visible under normal examination lights. By utilizing a specialized light, Oral ID highlights areas of concern, making them easier to detect and address promptly.
Benefits of Oral ID Screening
Oral ID screening offers numerous benefits, including the ability to detect early signs of cancer, compatibility with digital photography, and the ability to evaluate tissue changes post-treatment. This painless, quick examination increases survival chances by identifying cancer in its earliest stages.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Early diagnosis makes treatment for oral cancer easier and more effective. You should consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Wilhite DDS immediately if you notice the following symptoms:
- Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
- Lumps inside the mouth, lips, or gums
- Sores that don’t heal inside the mouth
- Patches on the tongue, gums, or inner lining
- Bleeding, numbness, or pain in the mouth or lip
- Loosening of dentures or teeth
- Swollen jaw
- Feeling of something stuck in the throat
How the Oral ID Examination Works
The Oral ID examination is a simple and non-invasive process that takes only a few minutes. During the exam, patients wear special eyewear while Dr. Wilhite uses the Oral ID wand to examine the mouth. The device highlights abnormal tissue by causing it to appear as a darker hue compared to healthy tissue. If any suspicious areas are detected, Dr. Wilhite may perform a biopsy to determine the presence of cancerous cells.
The Importance of Regular Screenings
Regular oral cancer screenings are vital for maintaining oral health and preventing serious complications. We recommend scheduling a screening every six months during your routine dental check-up, particularly for patients over the age of 17. Early detection significantly improves the effectiveness of treatment and increases the likelihood of a full recovery.
Why Choose Dr. David Wilhite?
Dr. David Wilhite brings over 30 years of experience and expertise in providing exceptional dental care. His commitment to using the latest technology, such as Oral ID, ensures that our patients receive the best possible care. Dr. Wilhite’s dedication to patient health and well-being has earned him numerous accolades and recognition in the field of dentistry.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today to schedule your oral cancer screening with Wilhite Plano Dentist today and take a proactive step toward protecting your health. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to support you every step of the way. Ensure your peace of mind with a comprehensive oral cancer screening at Wilhite Plano Dentist. Early detection can save lives, and our team is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care for you and your family.
There are several benefits to including Oral ID as part of your regular dental check ups.
“I love my dentist!! Get screened!” – Brandi
“I just did my oral cancer screening.” – Kim
“The screening is so easy and it is good to walk out knowing you were checked for something that could be so scary. Thanks Dr. Wilhite!!”
– Julie
“Love Dr. Wilhite and his staff.”
– Megan
“I’m so glad Dr. Wilhite does Oral Cancer Screening.”
– Margi
“Thanks for this exam Dr. Wilhite.”
– Gary
“Easiest cancer screening I have ever had. Thanks Dr. Wilhite for taking good care of me.”
– Stephanie
“Easiest Cancer Screening ever!!! Thanks Dr. Wilhite”
– Shari
“What a great exam!! Thanks Dr. Wilhite for caring about your patients and screening us for Oral Cancer.”
– Cathy
“What a wonderful thing my dental office is doing!! Thanks Dr. Wilhite for caring so much.”
– Janelle
“I trust Dr. Wilhite to recommend proper diagnostics and defer to his good judgment regarding the Oral ID procedure.”
– Pam
“Thanks to Dr. Wilhite, I know I don’t have oral cancer.”
– Henry
“Happy I was checked for Oral Cancer!!”
– Nolan
“I am so glad my dentist does the cancer test. It was fast and easy.”
– Dorota
“I was glad to hear that my Dentist was able to provide this service. It is something that I really did not know about. I appreciate this being brought to my attention. Thank you Dr. Wilhite and staff.”
– Vanessa
“I like the way Dr. Wilhite keeps up with the latest technology. Thank you Dr. Wilhite for my Oral cancer Screening.”
– David
“Such a quick and painless test that could catch a disease early on!!!!”
– Alex
“Save a life, check yourself!!!!!!!”
– Sonia
“Love my dentist!!!! Thanks for offering the latest in oral cancer screening.”
– Ron
“Love my dentist!!!! Thanks for offering the latest in oral cancer screening.”
– Ron
“This was so easy and now I feel good having it done. Everyone should be checked.”
– Tammy
“Get your cancer screening today…. easy and no hassle!!”
– Tom
“This is a lifesaver test. Thank you Dr. Wilhite for bringing this to your practice.”
– Jennifer
“This is such a good thing for Dr. Wilhite to do!!!”
– Ray
“This test/exam is quick and painless. Don’t put it off.”
– Warren
“Thank you Dr. Wilhite”
– Priya
“Thanks for adding this exam to what you already do for us.”
– Dawn
“It is good to know I am cancer free.”
– Sharon
“Two minutes to create peace of mind.”
– Jessica
“So worth it!!!!”
– Hailey
– Deborah
“Had to come back for a 2-week check. Dr. Wilhite
cleared me. I am so grateful for this test and Dr. Wilhite.”
– Paula
“
What a great office and how thorough to test for
oral cancer. I am so happy to know that my oral health is great!!”
– Mary
“This is an easy and quick test for oral cancer. I am proud that my dental office offers this.”
– Lucille
“Thanks Dr. Wilhite for this life saving test you offer in your practice.”
– Mike
“It’s simple…it’s painless…it’s priceless!!!!”
– Cheryl
“Easy, quick and painless check to assure I am maintaining good oral health.”
– Michael
“2 minutes can save your life!!!”
–John
“Easiest 2 minutes spent to protect my health and potentially save my life!!!”
–Suzanne
“I want to be proactive in my health care.”
–Mary
“This quick test can give such piece of mind. Thanks, Dr. Wilhite for such thorough exams.”
–Brian
About Oral ID
OralID uses a proven, optically based technology called, “fluorescence technology.”
The Oral ID’s fluorescence technology uses a blue light (435–460 nm) that provides the examining doctor an aid in visualization of oral cancer, pre-cancer, and other abnormal lesions.
Oral ID is simple and easy to use, with no rinses or disposable items required, creating an exam that is both simpler and more affordable.
OralID™ is manufactured by Forward Science, a company that was founded with the vision to create a simpler, efficient, and more affordable oral cancer screening device that can save more lives.
About Oral Cancer
Oral cancer affects more than 200,000 Americans every year. Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, the floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. It can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.
Risk factors include tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Symptoms include a sore that doesn’t heal, a lump, or a white or red patch on the inside of the mouth. People may experience pain in the ear, mouth, the face, or while swallowing.
