Oral Cancer Screening: What To Expect
You might be curious about what exactly your dentist or dental hygienist is doing when they hold your tongue and feel around the base of your mouth during a routine visit. Or perhaps you’ve been informed that you have certain risk factors for oral cancer and should consult a dentist about them. So you're probably now wondering, "What is an oral cancer screening?"
According to the National Cancer Institute, cancer screenings are meant to take place before any symptoms appear. An oral cancer screening is a precautionary measure that can easily be done during your regular dental hygiene appointment. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process, the tools used, and what to expect after the screening.
It may surprise you to learn that screening for oral cancer can take as little time as brushing your teeth. According to the Mouth Cancer Foundation, a thorough screening takes less than two minutes! Oral cancer refers to any cancer that occurs in the mouth (oral cavity), and your dentist or dental hygienist will inspect areas you may not have even thought about. The screening covers your entire oral cavity as well as connected tissues, which can include areas like the throat, sinuses, larynx, and pharynx.
Getting an oral cancer screening can ease your mind if everything looks good, or it can help catch any problems early if something comes up. The terms "oral cancer screening" and "mouth cancer screening" are often used interchangeably, so you may hear either from your dental professional. There are two main components of a mouth cancer screening, so let's take a closer look at what’s involved!
Visual Exam
If you wear dentures or removable dental appliances, remove them before your screening. This allows your dentist to thoroughly examine your entire mouth. During the exam, your dental professional will check for any asymmetries, swelling, bumps, patches of discoloration, ulcerations, or other abnormalities. They will assess your face, neck, lips, jaw, cheeks, the inside of your nose, and oral cavity, all of which are key areas in oral cancer screening.
To inspect the inside of your mouth, your dentist will use a light and mirror. A tongue depressor may also be used to hold down your tongue to examine the back of your mouth, similar to a routine visit. As you may recall from childhood checkups, your dental professional will ask you to stick your tongue out and say "Ahh" to better view your throat and other hard-to-see areas.
Physical Exam
In addition to the visual exam, your dental professional will gently palpate your face, mouth, and neck to check for any unusual nodules or masses. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, this tactile inspection is crucial for identifying cancer-causing abnormalities that may not be visible. By feeling for hard lumps of tissue, your dental professional can detect potential issues early. While symptoms of oral cancer can sometimes cause discomfort, they are often painless in the initial stages, making regular screenings even more important.
Oral Cancer Screening Tools
Your oral care provider may use specialized tools during an oral cancer screening, such as:
- An oral brush biopsy, which painlessly collects cells for testing.
- An enhanced oral assessment system that uses a fluorescent light to detect suspicious tissues.
- An oral lesion screening with a mouth rinse that aids in the visual inspection of your mouth's tissues.
Post Oral Cancer Screening
An oral cancer screening is a precautionary measure, not a diagnostic one. If your dentist or dental hygienist doesn't find any abnormalities during the exam, that’s excellent news! However, it's important to continue regular screenings at recommended intervals. Staying on top of your dental appointments is especially crucial if you have risk factors for oral cancer. The American Cancer Society lists the following as the main risk factors:
- Tobacco Use
- Alcohol Consumption
- HPV Diagnosis
- Sun Exposure
- Age (55 & Older)
- Gender (the Likelihood of Men Being Affected is Twice That of Women)
If your dental professional identifies a potential symptom of oral cancer, they may refer you for additional testing to determine its cause. It's important to remember that needing further investigation doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer. However, if cancer is detected, early diagnosis can greatly reduce future treatment complications. This is the reason early detection and prevention are crucial.
An oral cancer screening isn't just a physical exam - it's also a chance to discuss any concerns or fears you may have about mouth cancer with your dental professional. Be sure to come prepared with questions and seek advice on possible lifestyle changes. It's natural to feel anxious about the possibility of oral cancer, but regular screenings can help ease your mind and keep you informed about your health.
Elite Smile Family Dentistry: Your Dental Health Partner
At Elite Smile Family Dentistry in Northville, MI, your health and well-being are our top priorities. We recognize the importance of early identification of oral cancer, which is why we provide comprehensive oral cancer screenings as part of our devoted approach to your overall dental health.
Our dedicated team of dental professionals uses advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to conduct thorough examinations of your mouth, including your lips, gums, tongue, and throat. During your screening, we look for any unusual signs, such as sores, lumps, or changes in color, to ensure nothing goes unnoticed.
Our compassionate staff encourages you to voice any concerns or fears you may have regarding oral cancer, and we’re here to answer all your questions and provide valuable lifestyle advice to help you maintain optimal oral health. By prioritizing prevention and early detection, you’re taking a vital step toward protecting your health. Schedule your oral cancer screening today!
