7557 Rambler Rd Suite 1023, Dallas, TX 75231

Mary Swift, DDS – General Dentist & Morgan Petty, DDS – General Dentist

7557 Rambler Rd Suite 1023, Dallas, TX 75231
Dentist explain the treatment to her patient

Oral Cancer Screening

Home » Oral Cancer Screening

The importance of routine oral cancer screenings

Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, is a kind of cancer that affects the tissues in the mouth. This cancer can occur in any part of the mouth, including the gums, lips, tongue, and even the roof of the mouth. Oral cancer is most commonly found in men and women over 40, and smoking tobacco is one of the main factors for developing the disease. Drs. Mary Swift and Morgan Petty of Dallas Laser Dentistry in Dallas, Texas, encourage patients to visit a dentist who include oral cancer screenings as part of both initial and period dental exams.

We include both an unaided oral cancer screen by our hygienists during all cleaning appointments, and technology assisted screening by our doctors during their exams.

What are the symptoms of oral cancer?

Symptoms of possible oral cancer include:

– Sores or lumps in the mouth that will not go away
– Bleeding in the mouth
– Pain in the mouth
– Swelling in the jaw
– Difficulty swallowing or chewing

If you experience any of the above symptoms, you must see a doctor or dentist who can evaluate the area and determine if cancer is possibly present. This is often referred to as an oral cancer screening.

How can I perform a self-oral cancer screening?

As part of your regular at-home dental care routine, you should be performing a self-oral cancer screening. This involves using a mirror to closely examine all the tissues in your mouth, including your lips, gums, tongue, and inside of your cheeks. If you notice anything abnormal, such as a sore or lump that doesn’t go away, bleeding, or pain, be sure to see Drs. Mary Swift or Morgan Petty of Dallas Laser Dentistry right away so they can evaluate the specific area and determine if oral cancer is likely present and a biopsy is warranted.

What are the treatment options for oral cancer?

The treatment options for oral cancer will depend on the stage of the disease. Early-stage oral cancers can often be treated with surgery alone. However, more advanced stages of oral cancer may require a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

Schedule a visit with our team today!

If you have any questions about oral cancer or would like to schedule an appointment for an oral cancer screening, please call Dallas Laser Dentistry at (469) 838-5292. We are conveniently located at 7557 Rambler Road, Suite #1023, and are open to new patients in and around the Dallas, TX, area.

Success Stories

What Our Patients Say



Dallas Laser Dentistry

Dr. Mary Swift is a Cosmetic and general dentist near me
Dr. Mary Swift - Connect on LinkedIn

Dr. Mary Swift founded Dallas Laser Dentistry in 1997. She is known for her 30+ years of experience, candor, chair-side manner, and advanced dental and cosmetic techniques. She received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, TX. Dr. Swift is a member of organizations such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and Dallas County Dental Society. She has significant experience with Invisalign and smile makeovers and was certified in laser proficiency by the Academy of Laser Dentistry.

She continues to improve herself with post-graduate coursework and new science applications through Dallas Study Club and Spears Study Club. She is also the co-founder of Hopeful Smiles, a charity project for women, and has co-authored a national best-selling book. Dr. Swift has repeatedly received the Consumer’s Choice Award for Cosmetic Dentistry (2012-2024) and Texas Monthly’s ‘Super Dentists’ Award (2012-24) and was named by D Magazine as ‘Dallas Best Cosmetic and General Dentist’ the last five years (2020-24).
Board-certified Periodontist Christopher Drennen, DDS near me
Dr. Morgan Petty

Dr. Morgan Petty received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the Texas A&M University in College Station, TX, and her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Texas A&M College of Dentistry (formerly Baylor College of Dentistry). She continues to expand her skills with continuing education and participation in Spears’ Dallas Study Club. Dr. Petty is a member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Texas Dental Association, and the Dallas County Dental Society. Dr. Petty provides positive experiences and healthy and beautiful smiles for her patients.