Oral Cancer Screening

Understanding Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx (throat). It is a serious condition, and like many cancers, early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Unfortunately, many cases of oral cancer are not diagnosed until they have reached an advanced stage, making regular screenings critically important.

Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use (smoking and smokeless), heavy alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure (for lip cancer), and the human papillomavirus (HPV). While these factors increase risk, oral cancer can also occur in individuals with no known risk factors, emphasizing the need for universal screening. Symptoms can include persistent sores, lumps, white or red patches, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and unexplained bleeding.

What to Expect During Your Screening

An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless, and non-invasive part of your regular dental examination. Our dentists will visually inspect your mouth, throat, and neck for any abnormalities. This includes checking for unusual lumps, bumps, sores, discolorations, or swelling. We may also gently palpate your neck and jaw to feel for any suspicious masses.

• Visual inspection of the lips, tongue, gums, and other oral tissues.
• Palpation of the neck and jaw for any unusual masses or tenderness.
• Discussion of any persistent symptoms you may be experiencing.
• Recommendations for further investigation if any suspicious areas are found.

Should we find anything concerning during your screening, we will discuss the next steps with you, which may include further diagnostic tests or a referral to a specialist. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind and ensure any potential issues are addressed promptly and effectively.