In the United States alone, one adult dies every hour from oral cancers. When oral cancers are identified in the initial stages, treatment can begin more quickly. In the initial stages, treatment has a higher rate of success and is less invasive. In more advanced stages, oral cancers are more likely to have spread to other areas and need complex treatment.
We recommend having an oral cancer screening at least once each year. Regular screenings can help ensure early detection of any potential cancers.
During your oral cancer screening, Our dentist will check for any abnormalities. We will closely examine your mouth, throat, lips, gums, and tongue. Let us know about any potential symptoms you have experienced, including:
- Pain or difficulty with speaking, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue
- A sensation that something is caught in the back of your throat
- Sore throat with no other sinus symptoms
- Lumps or swellings in or around your mouth
- Drastic weight loss
- White or red patches in your mouth
- Mouth sores that do not heal
- Unexplained ear pain
- Unexplained bleeding in your mouth
If you have experienced any of these symptoms for more than a week without improvement, call us immediately for an appointment.
Anyone may develop oral cancer, but there are certain factors that can increase your risks. Some of the most common include:
- Being male (men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women)
- Use of tobacco in any form (6 times more likely)
- Genetic predisposition for oral cancers
- Excessive or prolonged exposure to sun
- Unhealthy diet
- Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages
- Having gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)
For more information on oral cancer screenings or to schedule an appointment, contact Prestige Dental.
FAQs
Q1. What is an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick examination of the mouth, throat, tongue, cheeks, and gums to check for unusual sores, lumps, or tissue changes. At Prestige Dental, screenings are often included as part of routine dental exams.
Q2. How often should I get an oral cancer screening?
Most patients should have an oral cancer screening at least once a year—often during regular checkups. Prestige Dental may recommend more frequent screenings if you have higher-risk factors.
Q3. Is an oral cancer screening painful?
No. Oral cancer screenings are typically fast and painless. Your Prestige Dental provider visually checks tissues and may gently feel areas of the jaw and neck for abnormalities.
Q4. Who is at higher risk for oral cancer?
Risk factors can include tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, HPV exposure, and prolonged sun exposure to the lips. Even without risk factors, Prestige Dental recommends screenings because early detection matters.
Q5. What happens if something unusual is found?
If we notice anything suspicious, Prestige Dental will explain the findings and recommend next steps, which may include monitoring the area, further testing, or referral to a specialist for evaluation.