Oral cancer screening is a non-surgical dental exam that a dentist or healthcare professional performs to assess early symptoms and signs of oral cancer. This also proves to be beneficial for precancerous conditions in your mouth.
During an oral screening, your practitioner examines your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor and roof of the mouth, and throat for any signs of sores or bumps. This also includes red or white patches, swelling, or unusual tissue changes.
Oral cancer affects thousands of people every year, and early detection significantly improves successful treatment rates. Regular screenings give you the best chance to identify problems before they become dangerous or serious.
How Early Detection Helps with Survival
During the initial stages of oral cancer, the development goes unnoticed as there is no noticeable pain. Most people fail to recognize symptoms until the disease has progressed.
When detected early, oral cancer has a significantly higher treatment rate compared to cancers diagnosed in later stages. Screenings help identify suspicious lesions before they spread. Early treatment is often less invasive and more effective.
In comparison, late-stage oral cancer requires extensive treatment and surgery along with radiation or chemotherapy. By scheduling timely dental examinations, oral screening can protect more than just your teeth.
Who Is at Risk of Oral Cancer?
Although oral cancer can strike anyone, there are a few things that can make it more likely to happen:
- Tobacco use (cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, vaping)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Excessive sun exposure (lip cancer risk)
- Family history of cancer
- Age over 40
But in recent years, mouth cancer has become more prevalent in youngsters, particularly in those who are at risk for HPV. This shift makes oral cancer screening all the more important for adults of all ages, not just vulnerable groups.
Common Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
It is important that you monitor your oral health irrespective of dental visits. And seek immediate evaluation if you notice the following:
- A sore that does not heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Persistent mouth pain
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- A lump in the neck or mouth
- Numbness in the tongue or lips
- Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
These signs don’t always mean you have cancer, but it’s best to be safe and get checked out early.
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
You may easily include an oral cancer screening into your routine dental exam because it only takes 15 minutes. During this time, your dentist will do the following:
- Visually inspect your mouth and throat
- Check for lumps or tissues that aren’t normal
- Look for signs of swelling in your neck and jaw
- Ask about symptoms or anything in their lives that could put them at risk
Some doctors also utilize extra equipment, like special lights or dyes, to look for abnormalities. If your dentist sees something strange, they may suggest a biopsy or send you to a specialist for more tests.
How Often Should You Get Screened?
Most dental professionals recommend an oral screening at least once a year or during your dental checkup. If your dentist feels you’re at a higher risk, they might recommend more evaluations to be sure.
It’s Better to be Safe Than Sorry!
Oral cancer screening plays a critical role in safeguarding your health. Early detection increases survival rates, reduces treatment intensity, and improves quality of life. The exam is quick, painless, and highly effective.
If you are considering an oral exam, reach out to the team at Smile 360 Family Dentistry. Call us at (909) 980-4878 to schedule your oral exam today.