Oral Cancer Screening

Better Quality of Life

Early detection allows for less aggressive treatment approaches, minimizing potential side effects and improving a patient’s quality of life after treatment. [5] 

Painless and Non-invasive Procedure

The beauty of oral cancer screenings lies in their simplicity and comfort. They are typically painless and non-invasive, involving:

Visual Examination

The dentist will use a special light and a small mirror to meticulously examine all areas inside your mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, throat, and the roof and floor of your mouth. [6] They’ll be looking for any unusual changes in color, texture, or size of tissues that might indicate potential problems.

Palpation

The dentist will gently feel the tissues in your mouth and neck to check for any lumps or bumps that could be concerning. [6] This part of the exam should not cause any discomfort.

Overall, an oral cancer screening is a quick and easy procedure that plays a vital role in maintaining good oral health.

What to Expect During a Screening

An oral cancer screening is a routine and straightforward procedure. Here’s what you can expect during the process:

Visual Examination

The dentist will begin with a thorough visual examination of your mouth using a bright light and a small mirror. [3] They will meticulously inspect all areas inside your mouth, including:

• Lips (both inside and outside surfaces)
• Tongue (top, sides, and underside)
• Cheeks
• Gums
• Throat (tonsils and soft palate)
• Roof and floor of the mouth

During this examination, the dentist will be looking for any abnormalities such as:

• Red or white patches on the soft tissues
• Sores or ulcers that don’t heal within two weeks
• Unusual bumps or lumps
• Bleeding that can’t be explained
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together

Palpation

After the visual exam, the dentist will gently feel the tissues of your mouth and neck for any lumps or bumps that might be cause for concern. [3] This is a painless procedure where the dentist will palpate the:

• Lymph nodes under the chin and jaw
• Muscles of the cheeks and tongue
• Floor of the mouth

Discussion of Risk Factors and Warning Signs

The dentist may also discuss your risk factors for oral cancer and ask you about any symptoms you might be experiencing. Some common risk factors for oral cancer include [7] :

Tobacco use (smoking, chewing)

• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Excessive sun exposure to the lips
• Weakened immune system

It’s important to be aware of potential warning signs of oral cancer, and to mention any of these to your dentist if you experience them, such as [7] :

• Mouth sores that don’t heal within two weeks
• Unusual lumps or bumps in the mouth or neck
• White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or inner cheeks
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
• Numbness in the tongue or mouth
• Unexplained weight loss

By openly discussing your risk factors and any symptoms you might have, the dentist can gain a more comprehensive understanding of your oral health.

Benefits of Early Detection: Why Early Matters in Oral Cancer

Early detection is the cornerstone of successful oral cancer treatment. When oral cancer is caught in its early stages, the chances of a full recovery and a positive long-term outlook increase significantly. Here’s why early detection is so crucial:

Increased Chance of Successful Treatment

According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer diagnosed at an early stage (Stage I) is over 80%. [1] This rate drops considerably as the cancer progresses to later stages. Early detection allows for less aggressive treatment approaches, often leading to higher success rates and better overall outcomes.

Wider Range of Treatment Options 

Early diagnosis opens doors to a wider range of treatment options, with the potential for less invasive procedures.  These may include:

Surgery: This is the most common treatment for oral cancer, especially in early stages. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tissue and some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure complete removal of the cancer.

Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells.

The specific treatment options will depend on the severity and location of the cancer. Early detection allows for a more tailored treatment plan with a higher chance of success.

Improved Quality of Life

Early detection of oral cancer can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life after treatment. [5] Less aggressive treatments often have fewer side effects, allowing for a faster recovery and a return to normal activities. Additionally, early intervention can minimize the need for extensive surgeries that can impact speech, swallowing, and facial appearance.

By catching oral cancer early, you can significantly increase your chances for a successful outcome and a better quality of life after treatment.

Who Should Get Screened? Protecting Yourself Through Early Detection

While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain individuals are at a higher risk for developing the disease. Regular oral cancer screenings are especially important for these groups:

Smokers and Tobacco Users: Tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and snuff, is a major risk factor for oral cancer. [7] The chemicals in tobacco can damage the cells in your mouth, increasing the chances of cancer development.

Heavy Alcohol Drinkers: Heavy alcohol consumption can also significantly increase your risk of oral cancer, particularly when combined with tobacco use. [7] The combined effect of these two habits has a synergistic impact, meaning the risk is greater than the sum of the individual risks.

Individuals with HPV Infection: The human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly strains 16 and 18, has been linked to an increased risk of oropharyngeal cancer, a type of head and neck cancer that can affect the tonsils and the back of the throat. [8] While HPV is primarily associated with cervical cancer, it can also contribute to oral cancers.

People with a History of Sun Exposure to the Lips: Excessive sun exposure to the lips can increase the risk of lip cancer. [9]

Those with a Weakened Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS or long-term use of immunosuppressant medications may be at a higher risk for developing oral cancer. [10]  A compromised immune system has a reduced ability to fight off infections and abnormal cell growth.

Early Detection is Key for Everyone

Even if you don’t fall into one of these high-risk categories, it’s still important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer and to schedule regular dental checkups that include oral cancer screenings. Early detection is important for successful treatment and a better prognosis, regardless of your risk factors.

Self-Awareness and Additional Tips: Empowering Yourself Through Knowledge

In addition to regular professional screenings, you can play an active role in your oral health by practicing self-awareness and knowing the warning signs of oral cancer. Here’s how:

Regular Self-Examinations

Perform a monthly self-examination of your mouth to become familiar with its normal appearance and texture. This allows you to detect any changes early on. Here’s a simple guide:

1. Stand in front of a well-lit mirror and tilt your head back slightly.
2. Gently pull your lower lip down to examine your gums, tongue, and the inside of your lower lip.
3. Then, tilt your head back further and lift your tongue to examine the roof of your mouth.
4. Feel the insides of your cheeks for any lumps or bumps.
5. Repeat the process for the upper lip and gums.

Warning Signs to Look For

If you notice any of the following changes during your self-examination or at any other time, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist right away [11, 12]: 

• Mouth sores that don’t heal within two weeks
• Unusual lumps or bumps in the mouth or neck
• White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or inner cheeks
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
• Numbness in the tongue or mouth
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loose teeth or dentures that don’t fit well suddenly

Early detection is critical, and any of these signs warrant a professional evaluation by your dentist.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Don’t underestimate the importance of regular dental checkups, typically recommended every six months. These visits include a professional oral cancer screening, allowing your dentist to thoroughly examine your mouth for any abnormalities. A dentist can also identify precancerous lesions and intervene early, potentially preventing the development of cancer altogether.

By being proactive with self-examinations, knowing the warning signs, and scheduling regular dental checkups with oral cancer screenings, you can empower yourself to take control of your oral health.

Protect Your Smile, Schedule Your Screening Today!

Early detection is the key to successful oral cancer treatment. Don’t wait until you experience symptoms to take action. Schedule a comprehensive dental checkup, including an oral cancer screening, at Englewood Dental NJ today!

By prioritizing your oral health and getting screened regularly, you’re giving yourself the best chance for a positive outcome. Schedule your appointment now!

Knowledge is Power – Safeguard Your Oral Health

Oral cancer is a serious health concern, but with early detection, it’s highly treatable. This article has highlighted the importance of oral cancer screenings, a simple and painless procedure that can potentially save your life. Remember:

• Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
• Regular self-examinations and awareness of warning signs empower you to take charge of your oral health.
• Scheduling routine dental checkups ensures professional screenings for early detection.

Prioritizing oral health and getting screened regularly are important steps in maintaining a healthy smile for years to come.

Oral Cancer – Dispelling Myths and Additional Screening Methods

Many misconceptions surround oral cancer. Here are some of the most common myths debunked:

Myth: Only smokers and tobacco users get oral cancer.

Fact: While tobacco use is a major risk factor, non-smokers can also develop oral cancer due to factors like HPV infection, heavy alcohol consumption, and a weakened immune system. [13] 

Myth: Oral cancer only affects older adults.

Fact: Although the risk increases with age, oral cancer can occur at any age. Early detection is important for everyone, regardless of age. [14]

Myth: If I don’t have any symptoms, I don’t need an oral cancer screening.

Fact: Early-stage oral cancer often doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms. That’s why regular screenings are essential for early detection, even if you feel fine. [15] 

Early detection is key. Schedule regular dental checkups and don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns you may have with your dentist.