What is Oral Cancer Screening
The probability of success in treating oral cancer is higher in cases where early alarm has been raised. Oral cancer screening should be a routine practice or else it will not be possible to consider an individual as having good oral health especially if they are vulnerable. Oral cancer screening – why it is important, how it works and ways you can decrease risk.
What is oral cancer screening?
According to National Cancer Institute, looking for cancer before a person has any symptoms is called screening. An oral cancer screening involves a thorough examination of the mouth and throat which can indicate or predict cases of cancer at its earliest stage. Our cosmetic dentist in Philadelphia, Dr. Razavi, will look at each part of your mouth, including the gums, lips, tongue, and throat for any sign of abnormalities.
What Groups of People are at Risk of Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can affect anybody, but some individuals become more prone owing to specific unhealthy habits and preexisting systemic diseases. Some of the common indicators include:
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Sun or UV Exposure
- Age: mostly if one is beyond 40 years old.
- Family history
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Oral Pre-Cancers and Cancers?
- White Spots with Sharply Defined Borders
- Red Spots with Sharply Defined Borders
- Ulcers (Open Sores) that Do Not Heal in 2 Weeks
Advanced Oral Cancer Signs:
- Constantly Stuffy Nose
- Non healing Sore throat
- Enlarged Neck Masses
If you encounter any of these, it is very important to seek medical treatment at once.
Procedures included in oral cancer screening:
- Review of medical history: Your dentist will go over your medical history at the initial appointment to identify any risk factors for having oral cancer such as smoking and/or drinking alcohol, excessive sun exposure or genetic background.
- Visual examination: Here your dentist will conduct check-ups for any anomalies that might have occurred involving the lips, the gum, the tongue, and the throat.
- Physical examination: your Dentist should check if there are any lumps in the neck and jaw.
- Use of special instruments: However, in particular instances, your dentist may employ special tools such as a lighted mirror and/or a smaller brush or take a biopsy to examine specific regions of the oral cavity.
- Referral to a specialist: your dentist might refer you to a specialist if they see any indications that you have oral cancer.
Prevention and Early detection:
In order to lower the possibility of developing oral cancer, it is important to follow good oral hygiene habits and undergo regular dental checks. You should also quit cigarette and pipe smoking, alcohol, and protect your lips from the sun. This means that undergoing regular oral cancer screening remains an essential component in obtaining and sustaining optimum oral health; early detection could also boost the chances of a positive treatment result.
Conclusion
One of the ways in which an individual may ensure good oral health is through screening for oral cancer, particularly if there is a suspect of a ‘higher risk’. Dental checks on a regular basis may find out about possible cancer symptoms at an earlier stage, increasing the probability that the patient will be saved. Practice good oral care, minimize risk factors, and seek help in case of any complications, thereby safeguarding oral health and full body health. To book an oral cancer screening at Razavi Dental office, please contact us at (215) 996-7030 or schedule an appointment at our website.