Oral Cancer Screening Oral cancer screenings are a vital preventive measure that the skilled dentists at provide. Routine screenings help identify potential issues in the mouth before they become serious, offering a greater chance of successful treatment if caught early. Regular oral cancer screenings should be a part of your routine dental visits to ensure your long-term health.Understanding the Risk FactorsWhile oral cancers are rare, certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing them. Individuals that smoke or drink heavily face a higher risk, and this risk is even more significant when both habits are combined. Individuals with an inherited deficiency in the enzyme that metabolizes alcohol are also at an increased risk for alcohol-related cancers. Another key factor is the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly the strains transmitted through sexual contact. Additionally, age and gender play roles. Oral cancer is twice as common in men, and individuals over 40 are more likely to develop it compared to younger individuals. Despite these risk factors, oral cancer can affect anyone. That's why routine screenings are so important. Dentists conduct these screenings during regular check-ups, often without you even being aware of it, to detect potential problems early on, when treatment is most effective. Where Does Oral Cancer Develop?Oral cancer can affect various soft tissues in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, throat, tonsils, esophagus, and salivary glands. Early signs of cancer may not always be noticeable, and in some cases, symptoms can appear as minor changes in tissue color or texture. These subtle signs can easily go unnoticed, which is why professional screenings are essential. What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?During a screening, your dentist will visually inspect the inside of your mouth, as well as your face, neck, and nose. To ensure a thorough examination, you may be asked to remove dental appliances like dentures. The dentist will look for abnormalities such as swelling, lumps, sores, or changes in color. The dentist will also palpate your neck, jaw, and cheeks to check for any unusual growths or lumps. You might be asked to move your head from side to side or up and down to assess any mobility issues or discomfort. Are Additional Tests Performed?To detect potential abnormalities that may not be visible to the naked eye, dentists often use advanced diagnostic aids. Fluorescence devices and saliva tests can help identify abnormal lesions. Some devices use light and dyes to reveal issues, while others use fluorescent light to detect changes in the tissue. In addition, the Brush Test is commonly used in-office. A specialized brush gently collects a sample from any suspicious area, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. If an abnormality is found, a biopsy may be required. This procedure involves removing a small tissue sample for further examination, typically performed by a specialist. The biopsy results will determine whether the tissue is cancerous and what type of cancer it may be. Don't Delay Your ScreeningEarly detection of oral cancer can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. If you haven't had an oral cancer screening recently, now is the time to schedule one. Contact today at (609) 507-0800 to book an appointment and take the first step toward maintaining your oral and overall health. |
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