Oral cancer screening is an examination that your dentist performs to look for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. This examination can reassure a patient that there are no apparent problems, or trigger early treatment if there are. Your dentist might suggest screening simply as a precautionary measure.
What you can expect:
Visual and Physical Exam
During an oral cancer screening exam, your dentist will look at your face, neck, lips, inside of the nose and oral cavity for oral cancer. Your dentist will also feel the tissues in your mouth to check for lumps or other abnormalities.
A major sign is immobility in normally mobile tissue, so you may be asked if there is any discomfort. Oral cancer symptoms can be painful, but a painless swelling can still be a sign of problems elsewhere.
Why Is a Screening Done?
The purpose of oral cancer screening is to detect mouth cancer or precancerous lesions that may lead to mouth cancer at an early stage — when cancer or lesions are easiest to remove and most likely to be cured.
If you have a high risk of oral cancer, you will benefit from an oral cancer screening. Factors that can increase the risk of oral cancer include:
● Tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco
● Heavy alcohol consumption
● Previous oral cancer diagnosis
If you are a tobacco user, you are in primary danger of oral cancer. More than 8,000 deaths were attributed to oral cancer through early detection of pre-cancerous lesions.
We are Proactive
If you are concerned about your oral health, ask your dentist whether oral cancer screening is right for you. We provide an oral cancer screening at each preventive dentistry care appointment. Your Davisville Dentist believes it’s imperative to be proactive with the dental treatment we provide our patients. We want to ensure you get the best care possible while helping to anticipate or avoid any future health issues.
We encourage you to contact us to learn more about our Oral Cancer Screening Examination or to book an appointment. We’re convinced you’ll be amazed by the quality of service you receive!