3210 Wilkinson Blvd, Ste. B-2, Charlotte, NC 28208
Oral Cancer Screenings: Early Detection Matters
Oral cancer screenings can detect signs of disease before it spreads, which is especially beneficial for individuals in high-risk groups. Regular screenings provide the opportunity to treat cancer in its early stages, increasing the likelihood of remission.
At Urban Family Dental, we offer oral cancer screenings for residents of Charlotte and the surrounding areas. Early detection can significantly enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatment. Call us at (704) 900-5445 to schedule your appointment today!
The Importance of Regular Oral Cancer Screenings
Regular oral cancer screenings are just as vital as routine dental checkups. Thankfully, patients can request to have both procedures done simultaneously. The National Cancer Institute notes that oral cancer symptoms often don’t manifest until the disease has advanced, making early detection crucial for easier treatment and better chances of remission.
WebMD recommends that everyone schedule a dental checkup at least once a year. However, there is no clear agreement among experts on how often oral cancer screenings should be conducted. A dentist can perform a thorough examination to help determine the appropriate frequency for a patient’s screenings.
High-Risk Groups for Oral Cancer
Some groups may benefit more from regular oral cancer screenings due to specific risk factors, which include, but are not limited to:
- A personal history of oral cancer
- Certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Prolonged sun exposure
- Tobacco use in any form
Patients may benefit from consulting a healthcare professional about their medical history to better assess their risk for oral cancer.
Limitations of Oral Cancer Screenings
While regular oral cancer screenings are essential for maintaining good health, the Mayo Clinic notes that detecting abnormal cells through a simple visual exam can be challenging. This means there’s a chance that early signs of cancer or precancerous lesions might go unnoticed.
The presence of unusual cells does not necessarily indicate cancer; a biopsy is required for a definitive diagnosis. If cancer is detected, early identification can provide more treatment options.
Although current evidence does not directly link screenings to reduced oral cancer mortality, regular screenings may facilitate early detection, increasing the likelihood of remission.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screening requires no special preparation, and patients can usually expect it to occur during a routine dental appointment. Typically, a basic oral cancer screening involves the dentist conducting a thorough examination of all areas of the patient's mouth, including:
- The back of the throat
- The gums
- The inner surfaces of the cheeks
- The outer and inner sides of the lips
- The roof of the mouth
- The tongue
Patients with dentures will need to remove them so that Dental Care of Morrisville can examine the tissue underneath, as well as the area beneath the jaw.
Overall, the screening typically takes less than five minutes.
Additional Tests After Oral Cancer Screenings
Depending on the patient's circumstances, the dentist may conduct additional tests alongside the basic screening. More comprehensive oral cancer screenings can involve the patient rinsing their mouth with blue dye, which helps make any unusual cells more visible. The dentist may also use a light during the exam, which can "highlight" abnormal tissue by making it appear white.
If these tests indicate signs of oral cancer or potentially cancerous lesions, the patient may need to undergo a biopsy. This procedure involves removing a sample of cells for laboratory analysis. A follow-up appointment may also be necessary to monitor any changes in the abnormal area since it was detected.
Questions Answered on This Page
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
Am I at an increased risk for developing oral cancer?
What are the limitations of oral cancer screenings?
What can I anticipate during my oral cancer screening?
Will there be any additional tests following the oral cancer screening?
Frequently Asked Questions
New patients and emergency appointments welcome
Gum Disease Terminology
Biopsy
A biopsy is a medical test that a medical professional uses to extract a sample of tissue to determine the exact cause of a disease.
Dental Checkup
A dental checkup is an appointment that involves cleaning the teeth, identifying any signs of infection and removing said signs of infection at least once every six months in the office.
Dental Prophylaxis
A dental prophylaxis is a thorough cleaning procedure that involves preventing the spread or continued growth of periodontal disease and gingivitis.
Dysphagia
Dysphagia is the difficulty or discomfort that one can experience when swallowing due to this disease.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the inflammation of gum tissue that results from plaque, other infections in the mouth and poor oral hygiene.
Oral Cavity
The term oral cavity is another name for the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, gums, teeth, the front of the tongue and the roof of the mouth.
Oral Mucosa
The oral mucosa is the mucous membrane that lines the inside of the mouth consisting of oral epithelium and lamina propria.
Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a common form of oral cancer that occurs within the mouth, which can also result from excessive smoking and alcohol use.
Precancerous Lesions
Precancerous lesions are morphologically altered tissue that has a high probability of causing oral cancer to occur in those specific spots.
Tartar
Tartar forms when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and calcifies into a hard surface that is much more difficult to remove and will require professional treatment.