Oral Cancer Screening

What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening

During your screening, your dentist will:

• Inspect your mouth, gums, tongue, and throat for any red or white patches or sores.
• Feel the tissues in your mouth and around your jaw and neck for any lumps or irregularities.
• Use UV light technology to highlight any suspicious areas that may not be visible under regular lighting.
• Discuss any symptoms you may have been experiencing, such as persistent sores, pain, or difficulty swallowing.

The process is quick, non-invasive, and typically completed within a few minutes as part of your routine dental exam.

Causes of Oral Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing oral cancer, including:

• Any form of tobacco consumption, such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, snuff, dip, and vaping.
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Family history of cancer
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Significant sun exposure

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Common symptoms that could indicate oral cancer include:

• Red or white spots or sores anywhere in the mouth
• A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
• A lump, thickened area, or rough spot in the mouth
• Pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or on the lips
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to consult your dentist as soon as possible.

Preventing Oral Cancer

While some risk factors, like family history, cannot be changed, you can reduce your overall risk of developing oral cancer by taking the necessary steps. We encourage patients to limit their sun exposure as much as possible. If you do go out in the sun, apply UV-A/B-blocking, sun-protective lotion to your skin and lips. Requesting regular oral cancer screenings as part of your dental exams is also ideal, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Other small ways to prevent oral cancer include:

• Avoiding all tobacco products
• Drinking alcohol in moderation
• Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet