Oral Cancer Screening

Oral Cancer Screening

Early detection of cancer in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat is crucial—be aware of the symptoms and understand your personal risk factors.

The Signs And Symptoms Of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer develops from the abnormal growth of cells in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Early identification of oral cancers dramatically improves the likelihood of successful treatment. Although people over 45 are at higher risk, anyone who experiences the following symptoms should consider scheduling an oral cancer screening:

  1. Discolored Patches: Look for unusual white or dark red patches on your lips or inside your mouth.

  2. Texture Changes: Stay alert for unexpected lumps or changes in the texture of your mouth or tongue.

  3. Persistent Issues: Keep track of canker sores that don’t heal, persistent numbness, or ongoing bleeding.

  4. Altered Sensations: Be mindful of any unusual feelings in your tongue, changes in taste, or trouble swallowing.

Risk Factors Associated with Oral Cancer

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer, including:

  1. Tobacco Use: Using tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco significantly increases the likelihood of developing oral cancer.

  2. Alcohol Consumption: Drinking heavily or regularly, particularly when combined with tobacco use, is a major risk factor for oral cancer.

  3. HPV Infection: Having an infection of the human papillomavirus (HPV) in the mouth can increase the risk of developing oral cancer.

  4. Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun, especially for those with sun-intense lifestyles, contributes to a higher risk of oral cancer, particularly on the lips.

  5. Diet and Nutrition: A poor diet, especially one that lacks sufficient fruits and vegetables, has been linked to a higher risk of oral cancer.

  6. Family History: If oral cancer runs in your family, your risk of developing it may be higher.

  7. Gender: Oral cancer is more frequently diagnosed in men compared to women.

  8. Leukoplakia: A history of leukoplakia, which causes thick, white patches to form in the mouth, can raise the risk of oral cancer.

Being proactive about regular screenings and making lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of oral cancer and improve overall health.

Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer

Treatment plans are tailored to the individual based on the cancer’s type, location, and severity.

Identifying Early Symptoms

Oral cancer screenings are crucial for early detection. During the exam, your dentist will check for any abnormal patches, sores, or lumps in your mouth, on your tongue, and under your lips. The neck and throat will also be examined for any unusual textures or swelling.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If any signs of oral cancer are found, your dentist may recommend additional tests, such as a biopsy or imaging (X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs). Depending on the diagnosis, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy to remove or shrink tumors.

Preventing Oral Cancer

Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk of developing oral cancer. Regular dental exams, quitting tobacco, cutting back on alcohol, using UV-protective lip balm, and maintaining a diet rich in fruits and vegetables are all effective preventive measures. Additionally, self-checks of your mouth and reporting any concerns to your dentist help catch problems early.

Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation & exam.

Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Should I get oral cancer screening?

If you have risk factors for oral cancer or notice unusual patches, lumps, or sores, it’s wise to request a screening during your dental check-up.

How do dentists check for oral cancer?

Dentists examine your lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and the roof of your mouth for any abnormal changes and feel your neck, jaw, and throat for lumps or tenderness.

How do you self-check for oral cancer?

Wash your hands, then inspect your mouth in a mirror, checking your lips, gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. Feel for lumps or unusual sensations, and contact your dentist if any sores don’t heal after two weeks.

What does stages of mouth cancer look like?

Early signs may include painless patches in red, white, gray, or yellow, with red borders. These can appear on the lips, gums, tongue, or cheeks and should be checked by a dentist or doctor.

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