Oral Cancer Screening in Chicago, IL
Early Detection That Could Save Your Life
Oral cancer affects thousands of Americans each year and is often detected too late. At Ramy Bahu, DDS, we include routine oral cancer screening as part of your comprehensive dental exam, helping to identify suspicious tissue changes in their earliest—and most treatable—stages. Our practice is committed to protecting both your oral and overall health through proactive screening and patient education.
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, we provide this critical preventive service to patients in Streeterville, River North, South Loop, and surrounding neighborhoods.
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Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor of the mouth, and throat. In its early stages, it may not cause noticeable symptoms. That’s why professional screenings are essential for early detection.
Regular oral cancer screenings can help identify:
- Unusual red or white patches
- Persistent sores or ulcers that don’t heal
- Lumps or thickened tissue
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Changes in speech or swallowing
- Numbness or tingling in the lips or tongue
The earlier oral cancer is detected, the higher the chances of successful treatment. Incorporating screening into your routine dental cleanings and exams helps ensure timely diagnosis and peace of mind.
Who Should Get Screened?
Everyone benefits from routine oral cancer screening, but certain individuals may be at increased risk. Factors that elevate the likelihood of developing oral cancer include:
- Tobacco use (smoking or smokeless)
- Heavy or regular alcohol consumption
- A history of HPV (human papillomavirus)
- Age 40 or older
- Prolonged sun exposure (for lip cancer)
- Family history of oral or other head and neck cancers
Even if you do not have any known risk factors, regular screenings remain important. We believe prevention and vigilance are key to long-term wellness.
What to Expect During Your Oral Cancer Screening
Screening is fast, non-invasive, and included in your regular dental visits at Ramy Bahu, DDS. Here’s what happens during your evaluation:
- Visual Examination: We carefully inspect your lips, gums, tongue, inner cheeks, and throat for abnormalities, including color changes or irregular tissue.
- Palpation: Gentle palpation is used to check for lumps or hardened areas in the jaw, neck, and soft tissues of the mouth.
- Technology-Assisted Screening (If Needed): In cases where additional assessment is necessary, we may use adjunctive tools to enhance visualization and detection.
If any unusual areas are found, we’ll discuss next steps, which may include close monitoring or referral to a specialist for biopsy or further evaluation.
The Role of Your Dentist in Cancer Prevention
As your first line of defense, your dentist plays a crucial role in the early detection of oral cancer. Dr. Ramy Bahu, D.D.S. is highly trained in identifying oral pathology and incorporates screening into every comprehensive exam. With over 30 years of experience, he’s committed to providing attentive, preventive care to every patient—especially when it comes to life-saving diagnoses.
Related Preventive Services
In addition to oral cancer screening, we offer other services that support long-term oral health and early intervention:
- Dental Cleanings & Exams – The foundation of regular preventive care
- Fluoride Treatment – To strengthen enamel and resist decay
- TMJ Therapy – Evaluation of jaw joint health and muscle function
- Dental Technology – Advanced tools to enhance diagnostic accuracy
Together, these services allow us to monitor your oral health with precision and consistency.
FAQs About Oral Cancer Screening
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Is oral cancer screening painful?
No. The screening is non-invasive and painless. It involves a visual inspection and gentle palpation of the soft tissues of your mouth, face, and neck.
How long does the screening take?
It typically takes just a few minutes and is performed during your regular dental exam.
Do I need a screening if I don’t have symptoms?
Yes. Most early signs of oral cancer are subtle and not noticeable to patients. Routine screenings are essential for early detection—even when you feel fine.
How often should I be screened?
We include oral cancer screening in every comprehensive exam. For most patients, this means every six months. Those at higher risk may require more frequent evaluations.
What happens if something suspicious is found?
If we detect an abnormal area, we’ll explain the findings clearly and discuss the next steps, which may include referral to a specialist or additional testing.
Schedule an Oral Cancer Screening in Chicago Today
Early detection saves lives. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Regular oral cancer screening is a vital part of your preventive care plan—and it’s included in your routine exam at our office.
Call (312) 943-6444 or request your appointment online today. We proudly serve Streeterville, River North, South Loop, and the greater downtown Chicago area.
