Oral Cancer Screening and Prevention

According to the American Cancer Society, over 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed annually, with more than 7,000 resulting in death. The good news is that oral cancer can often be detected early through an annual oral cancer exam, and treatment is highly effective when the disease is caught in its initial stages.

Understanding Oral Cancer

Oral cancer begins with an asymptomatic stage, making early detection by a dentist crucial. There are various types of oral cancer, including teratoma, adenocarcinoma, and melanoma. The most common type is malignant squamous cell carcinoma, which usually originates in the lips and oral tissues.

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Common Sites of Oral Cancer

  • Lips
  • Mouth
  • Tongue
  • Salivary Glands
  • Oropharyngeal Region (throat)
  • Gums
  • Face

Why Oral Cancer Exams Are Important

Approximately 75% of oral cancers are linked to modifiable behaviors such as smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Your dentist can provide education and guidance for lifestyle changes, including smoking cessation.

Early detection dramatically increases treatment success. Any unusual changes in the tongue, gums, mouth, or surrounding areas should be promptly evaluated.

Signs Checked During an Oral Cancer Exam

  • Red patches and sores: Red, white, or pink patches that fail to heal, bleed easily, or are slow to heal may indicate cancerous changes.
  • Leukoplakia: Hard white or gray raised lesions inside the mouth that may be cancerous or could become cancerous if untreated.
  • Lumps: Thickened tissue, soreness, or lumps anywhere in the mouth or throat that could signal pathological changes.

Examination, Diagnosis, and Treatment

The oral cancer exam is completely painless. The dentist visually inspects the oral and maxillofacial regions and palpates the face, glands, and neck for unusual lumps. Advanced tools, such as diagnostic lasers, can detect abnormalities beneath the surface that are invisible to the naked eye.

If abnormalities are found, the dentist will create a diagnostic impression and treatment plan. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to determine the precise stage and grade of the lesion. Oral cancer is diagnosed when the basement membrane of the epithelium is compromised. Malignant cancers can spread to other areas, so early intervention is critical.

Treatment may include surgical excision, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, depending on the diagnosis. While routine dental check-ups include basic screening, a comprehensive oral cancer examination should be performed at least once per year.

If you have any questions or concerns about oral cancer, please contact our practice.