Will I get an oral cancer screening?
Detecting oral cancer early is crucial in fighting against it, just like with any other type of cancer. It's worth noting that 25% of oral cancer cases are diagnosed in individuals who do not smoke. Therefore, it is essential for every patient to undergo a painless and straightforward oral cancer screening, regardless of their smoking habits. The early stages of oral cancer may not exhibit any symptoms, which emphasizes the significance of a screening that can identify potential issues before they become visible or cause any sensations.
Signs and symptoms
Oral cancer can manifest in various areas of the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, the roof of the mouth, and other soft tissues. It can also develop in the back of the throat, known as oropharyngeal cancer, according to medical professionals.
The most common symptom of oral cancer is the presence of red or white sores that do not heal over time. These sores can appear as discolored patches or hard lumps. While they may cause pain, it is not always the case. Differentiating between cancerous sores and regular mouth sores can be challenging, which is why it is crucial to undergo regular screenings with your dentist.
Additional symptoms of oral cancer include throat soreness, bad breath, and changes in the mouth, such as loose teeth or difficulties with chewing and swallowing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. While these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, early detection by visiting a healthcare professional offers the best chance for improving your oral cancer prognosis.
Some factors that increase the risk of developing oral cancer are:
- Tobacco use (smoking, chewing & dip)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Poor diet
- HPV (human papilloma virus)
- Age (higher risk over 40 years old)
Methods Used by Dentists to Diagnose Oral Cancer
During your oral cancer screening, your dentist will visually examine your mouth and the surrounding areas using lights, mirrors, and other tools. This allows them to check areas that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They are also trained to identify subtle signs of cancer, such as asymmetrical features inside and outside the mouth.
Thanks to modern technological advances, dentists now have a variety of tools to detect cancer. Specially designed lights can highlight potential cancerous spots, and cleaning rinses can improve the inspection process. However, it's important to note that this equipment is used to enhance visual and physical examinations, not as a replacement for tried and true detection methods.
After completing an oral cancer screening, your dentist will not immediately diagnose you with oral cancer. They may want to monitor the condition of your mouth and ask you to come back for further testing. It's important to understand that this does not necessarily mean something is wrong. Detecting oral cancer can be complex, and the dentist may simply want to keep an eye on your oral health to ensure that more serious symptoms do not appear.
Remember, when oral cancer is caught early, the survival rate is 80 to 90%. While oral cancer may seem scary, we encourage you to reach out to us with any concerns as soon as possible. Early detection and lifestyle changes can greatly improve the outcome. So don't forget to ask your dentist or hygienist for your annual screening!