at Coastal Jaw Surgery
at Coastal Jaw Surgery
ORAL CANCER SCREENING For Early Detection of Signs & Symptoms
Oral cancer can develop in areas such as the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, gums, and other oral tissues. Cancers can also affect nearby areas of the throat and oropharynx. Because early-stage disease may not always cause noticeable symptoms, regular examinations can play an important role in identifying suspicious changes as early as possible.
Possible warning signs of oral or oropharyngeal cancer may include:
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Numbness in the mouth or lips
- A sore that does not heal
- Persistent sore throat or mouth pain
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Rough areas, lumps, or thickened tissue
- Unexplained changes in the mouth, face, or neck
Certain factors can increase the risk of developing oral or oropharyngeal cancer. These include:
- Tobacco use
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- A previous history of oral cancer
- Certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly in relation to oropharyngeal cancer
- Prolonged ultraviolet exposure, particularly for cancers of the lip
- A diet low in fruits and vegetables
If you notice unusual changes in your mouth or are concerned about your risk of oral cancer, it is important to have the area evaluated. Early detection can significantly improve treatment options and outcomes.
For more than three decades, Coastal Jaw Surgery has provided patients throughout the Tampa Bay area with oral surgery, periodontal, dental implant, and Same Day Teeth® services. Our team uses advanced technology and thorough clinical evaluation to identify areas that may require further examination or testing.
To schedule an appointment for an oral cancer screening, contact Coastal Jaw Surgery today at (800) NEW-LOOK.
Coastal Jaw Surgery
Dr. Michael A. Pikos
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Michael A. Pikos is the CEO and Founder of Coastal Jaw Surgery, now celebrating its 40th anniversary. He is also the CEO and Founder of the world renowned Pikos Institute in Trinity, FL. He is recognized as a world authority on dental implant surgical reconstruction.
Coastal Jaw Surgery
Dr. Nicole Hernandez
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Othman Rezki
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Coastal Jaw Surgery
Dr. Philip J.
Hedger
Prosthodontist
Coastal Jaw Surgery
Dr. Lindsey
Pikos Rosati
Periodontist
Coastal Jaw Surgery
Dr. Anthony M. Pikos
Periodontist
Dr. Bashar Adeinat
Periodontist
ORAL CANCER SCREENING AND BIOPSY PROCESS
Oral cancer symptoms often do not occur until the cancer has progressed, which is why it is so important to schedule oral cancer screenings and regular examinations. During routine visits, our staff will provide a comprehensive examination that includes checking for indications of oral cancer. During the oral cancer screening process, we will examine the inside of your mouth to look for any abnormal tissue that may be indicative of precancerous or cancer conditions. Oftentimes, a VELscope® will also be used, which is a handheld device that will cause oral mucosa to naturally fluoresce and identify suspicious lesions that may not be easily noticed otherwise.
If a suspicious area is identified, a biopsy will be performed, which involves removing a portion of the tissue (incisional biopsy), the entire tissue (excisional biopsy), or scraping sample cells from the area (exfoliative cytology). This tissue will then be sent for evaluation by a pathologist. Following your pathology results, our surgeons will discuss available treatment options.
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR ORAL CANCER
If your biopsy results confirm that you have oral cancer, we will help coordinate treatment options to ensure you receive the care you need as quickly as possible. Although treatment plans will be slightly different for everyone, the most common methods for treating cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or any combination of the three. Surgical removal of the tumor can be minor or quite extensive depending on the size and location of the tumor. Chemotherapy drugs are designed to stress or damage cancer cells, and radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill or control malignant cells. The two are often done in combination with one another, especially if surgical removal is not an option. Drug therapy is also commonly part of a treatment plan and is done to interfere with cancer cell growth, as well as immunotherapy, which involves suppressing or activating the immune system, which in turn helps the body destroy tumors.
Following oral cancer surgery, reconstructive surgery may be recommended to help rebuild your mouth. Please know that our doctors can help restore appearance and function using advanced techniques and delivered with skillful care.
Same Day Teeth®
at Pikos Institute
8740 Mitchell Blvd
New Port Richey, FL 34655
(727) 877-0011
at Clearwater, FL
Pinellas Periodontics
at Clearwater
3003 Enterprise Rd E
Clearwater, FL 33759
(727) 799-4492
Coastal Jaw Surgery
at Palm Harbor
2711 Tampa Rd.
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(727) 786-1631
Coastal Jaw Surgery
at Spring Hill
4372 Commercial Way
Spring Hill, FL 34606
(352) 596-6804
Coastal Jaw Surgery
at Tampa
11940 Sheldon Rd
Tampa, FL 33626
(727) 877-0011
Coastal Jaw Surgery
at Trinity
8845 Hawbuck St
Trinity, FL 34655
(727) 375-0469
COST OF ORAL CANCER SCREENING
The cost of performing an oral cancer screening is minimal; however, the overall cost of treatment will depend on a variety of factors, including whether or not oral cancer is present and, if so, what procedures are performed as part of your treatment plan, as well as your dental insurance plan coverage (if applicable). At Coastal Jaw Surgery, we are committed to providing you with high-quality oral care in a manner that is simple and efficient. To help meet your unique budget and needs, we offer the following financing options:
- Carecredit® Healthcare Financing (interest-free financing for dental care)
- GreenSky® Patient Financing
- Lending Club Patient Financing
We also accept traditional insurance, and as a courtesy to you, we are happy to file and track your insurance claim and assist with insurance family plans. To help facilitate this process, please have your insurance information prepared at your appointment, including your insurance and identification card. To help you maximize your benefits, we are also happy to provide a written diagnostic report and X-rays to your insurance company if necessary.
Please note: Dental insurance only covers part of your total expenses, and remaining out-of-pocket expenses must be paid following service. We accept cash, debit cards, and most major credit cards (MasterCard, VISA, Discover, American Express).
Contact Coastal Jaw Surgery
At Coastal Jaw Surgery, our goal is to improve your oral health, restore the function and appearance of your smile, and support your overall quality of life.
Whether you are receiving oral surgery, dental implants, or periodontal treatment, you can feel confident knowing your care is guided by professionals who remain closely involved in advancements within implant dentistry, periodontics, and oral surgery.
To learn more about our practice and services or to schedule an appointment for an oral cancer screening, contact us today at (800) 639-5665 or complete our online form.