ORAL CANCER SCREENING

In addition to tobacco use, many diagnosed oral cancer cases have been linked to long-term alcohol use – often in conjunction with tobacco (smokeless or otherwise).

In more recent years, diagnosed cases have been linked to the HPV16 virus. That’s why young adults and teens are suddenly more at risk.

Lastly, a very small percentage (< 7%) of oral cancer cases may be due to genetic predisposition.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

• white and red patches in the mouth
• Bleeding in the mouth
• Numbness in any area of the face, mouth, or neck
• Persistent sores on the face or mouth that do not heal within 2 weeks
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue
• Ear pain
• Dramatic weight loss

When & How Often Should I Have Oral Cancer Screenings?

You’re already coming in twice a year for you check-ups, so we recommend choosing one of those dates each year for an oral cancer screening. Depending on what your dentist finds, he or she will make recommendations for future screenings. Give us a call, or schedule your next visit with us online!

Firstly, they don’t take very long, they don’t hurt, they could save your life, and can be done during your next routine check-up.

Oral cancer screenings are an excellent way for your dentist to discover abnormalities in your mouth and potentially diagnose oral cancer. If found early on, oral cancer actually has an 80% chance or higher survival rate – meaning it can be beaten! Thus, making early detection a key factor in beating Oral Cancer.

Smokers are at a higher risk for oral and throat cancer, but that doesn’t mean that only smokers are susceptible. Around 25% of those with oral cancer do not have any known risk factors like being a tobacco user – the cancer just appears without understood reason. Even more people do not have any initial symptoms, so it’s no wonder that oral cancer is often discovered in the dangerous, later stages of development.

During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will carefully look over the inside of your mouth for any red or white patches or unexplained sores. With gloved hands, they’ll gently feel the tissues in your mouth to check for lumps or anything unusual. Often, your dentist will also examine your throat and neck for any signs of swelling or bumps.

These screenings are quick, simple, and could be the difference between early detection and a much tougher fight down the road.

Good news: there’s no homework needed before an oral cancer screening. You won’t need to skip meals, endure any strange mouthwashes, or rearrange your schedule. These screenings are usually completed during your regular dental visits, fitting seamlessly into your routine checkups. So, you can walk right into your appointment, sit back in the chair, and let your dental professional handle the rest—no unique prep required.

If your dentist does notice anything unusual—like a suspicious spot or lesion—they may suggest a follow-up visit in a few weeks to check if the area has changed or is still present. Sometimes, your dentist might recommend a biopsy, where a small sample of cells is removed and sent for laboratory testing to see if cancer cells are present. In some cases, you may be referred to a specialist for further evaluation and diagnosis.

Regular screenings, paired with timely follow-ups and expert care, are key steps in catching oral cancer early when it’s most treatable.