Oral cancer screening is a vital part of maintaining your oral health. It involves a thorough examination by your dentist or oral health professional to detect any signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. Early detection is key to successful treatment, making regular screenings an essential part of your overall healthcare.

Why Is Oral Cancer Screening Important?

• Oral cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer when detected early.
• Early-stage oral cancer often doesn’t show noticeable symptoms, making screenings crucial.
• It can help identify not just cancer, but also other abnormal tissue changes that could lead to cancer.
• Regular screening increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

During an oral cancer screening, your dentist or dental surgeon will look for signs of oral cancer, including:

• Sores or lumps in the mouth, throat, or neck
• White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or mouth lining
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Unexplained pain in the mouth or throat
• Persistent hoarseness or sore throat

Your dentist will also manually feel for any unusual lumps or swellings in the neck and jaw area. They may use special tools or a light to get a closer look at the tissues in your mouth.

Who Should Get Oral Cancer Screening?

• Adults over 40 years old, especially those who smoke or consume alcohol regularly, are at a higher risk.
• People with a history of oral cancer or who have been diagnosed with HPV (Human Papillomavirus).
• Anyone noticing changes or abnormalities in their mouth, such as persistent sores, difficulty swallowing, or pain.
• Patients with a family history of cancer or other predisposing conditions.

How Often Should You Have an Oral Cancer Screening?

• If you’re at average risk, an oral cancer screening is typically done once a year during your routine dental checkup.
• If you’re at higher risk due to lifestyle factors or family history, your dentist may recommend more frequent screenings.

Questions and Answers

1. What are the early signs of oral cancer?
   • The early signs may include unexplained pain, sores that don’t heal, white or red patches in the mouth, and difficulty swallowing or chewing.
2. Is oral cancer screening painful?
   • No, oral cancer screenings are non-invasive and typically painless. The dentist may gently palpate areas around your mouth and neck, but there should be no discomfort.
3. What happens if something unusual is found during the screening?
   • If your dentist finds any abnormalities, they may recommend further tests, such as a biopsy, to determine whether the condition is cancerous or precancerous.
4. Can oral cancer be prevented?
   • While oral cancer cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake, can reduce your risk.
5. How is oral cancer treated if detected?
   • Treatment for oral cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. Early detection greatly improves the success rate of treatment.