Oral cancer is one of the serious illnesses that primarily affects the lips, mouth, and throat. Anyone can develop oral cancer, but the good news is that it may be curable if detected at an early stage. This is the primary reason your dentist checks for symptoms of oral cancer during a checkup. In this article, we’ll discuss what a dentist checks during an oral cancer screening and why it’s so important.
What is Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a simple exam performed by a dentist to check for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth. The general dentist will examine your lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and the roof and floor of your mouth. In some cases, they’ll also check your neck and jaw for swelling or lumps. The goal is to find any changes or abnormalities that could indicate cancer early when treatment is most effective.
Oral Cancer Risk Factors
Before we talk about what the dentist looks for, it’s important to understand the risk factors for oral cancer. Understanding these factors can help you stay alert and take preventive steps.
- Tobacco Use: Oral cancer is generally caused by smoking or chewing tobacco.
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Excessive consumption of alcohol increases the risk of oral cancer.
- Age: Oral cancer is most likely to occur in individuals above 40 years of age. Younger people also suffer from oral cancer.
- Sun Exposure: Lip cancer is also caused by excessive exposure to the sun, especially in individuals who spend much time outdoors without lip protectants.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is a virus which increases the risk for oral cancers.
- Family History: If any family member has had oral cancer, you are at greater risk.
By knowing your risk factors, you can talk to your dentist about any concerns you have, and they can provide advice for your situation. They may recommend an oral cancer screening in Carstairs to help detect any potential mouth problems early, allowing them to provide recommendations for your situation.
What Does the Dentist Check for During an Oral Cancer Screening?
Now that we know what oral cancer is and what the risk factors are, let’s take a look at what the dentist checks for during the screening.
Changes in Skin Color or Texture
The dentist will examine the inside of your mouth to see if there are any unusual white, red, or dark patches. These changes could be signs of cancer or precancerous cells. They may also check if the tissue feels rough, thick, or swollen.
Lumps or Bumps
The dentist will gently feel around your mouth, jaw, and neck to look for any lumps or bumps. These could be swollen lymph nodes or growths that might be cancerous. If the dentist finds anything unusual, they may recommend further testing.
Sores or Ulcers
Any sores or ulcers in the mouth that don’t heal after two weeks can be a sign of oral cancer. The dentist will check for these and may suggest a biopsy if they find one.
Red or White Patches
Red or white patches in the mouth that don’t go away are common warning signs of oral cancer. The dentist will look for these and may take a sample to check for abnormal cells.
Difficulty Moving the Jaw or Tongue
The dentist will ask you to move your jaw and tongue in different directions. If you feel pain or have trouble moving them, it could be a sign of a problem. A dentist will check for stiffness or pain in these areas, which might indicate something serious.
Changes in Voice or Swallowing
If you notice that your voice has changed or that it’s hard to swallow, these can be signs of oral cancer. The dentist may ask if you’ve noticed any changes when speaking or eating.
Why is Oral Cancer Screening Important?
Oral cancer screenings are important because they help detect cancer in the earliest stages when it’s easy to treat. If your dentist notices anything unusual during the screening, they will refer you for further tests. Early detection means a higher chance of successful treatment and recovery.
Key Takeaways
If you have any of the oral cancer risk factors or notice any changes in your mouth, talk to your dentist. They can help guide you through the process and keep a close eye on your oral health.
Regular oral cancer screening near you is essential for maintaining good oral health and detecting potential mouth problems early. Remember to visit your dentist for checkups and be proactive in caring for your mouth. This small step can make a big difference in your overall health.
Protect Your Smile With Regular Cancer Screenings At Mountain View Smiles!
Mountain View Smiles is a professional dental clinic offering multiple dental services. Our friendly team of dentist in Didsbury focuses on preventing mouth problems, including oral cancer screenings, to help keep your mouth healthy. Don’t wait—protect your smile today! Schedule your dental appointment with us and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter future.m