 Oral Cancer Screening
Dentist Salem, OR
What Is Oral Cancer Screening? Oral cancer screening is a simple yet essential examination performed by your dentist to detect early signs of mouth cancer or precancerous conditions. The goal of screening is to catch any abnormalities as early as possible when treatment is most effective. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the risk of oral cancer progression and improve the chances of a full recovery.
At Fairmount Dental Center, we take your oral health seriously, and our team is committed to offering comprehensive care, which includes routine oral cancer screenings. This screening is quick, non-invasive, and could be life-saving.
Why Is Oral Cancer Screening Important? Oral cancer affects tens of thousands of people annually in the United States alone, and the number is growing. Risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, excessive sun exposure (for lip cancer), and the human papillomavirus (HPV) have been linked to oral cancer. However, even individuals without these risk factors may develop oral cancer, which makes routine screening all the more important.
Early detection is critical. Oral cancer can often go unnoticed until it reaches more advanced stages, when treatment becomes more complex and less effective. Regular screenings during your dental visits help ensure that any suspicious changes are caught and addressed quickly.
What Are the Signs of Oral Cancer? While oral cancer screening is designed to detect abnormalities early, it’s helpful to be aware of the common signs and symptoms of oral cancer. If you experience any of the following, be sure to bring it to your dentist’s attention immediately: | • |
Sores or lesions in the mouth that don’t heal within two weeks.
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White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth.
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Unexplained lumps or swellings in the mouth, throat, or neck.
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Persistent pain or discomfort in the mouth or throat.
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Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
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Chronic hoarseness or a sore throat.
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Numbness or tingling in the mouth or lips.
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Loose teeth without any clear reason. |
Keep in mind that some of these symptoms can be caused by non-cancerous conditions. However, it’s always better to be safe and have a professional evaluate any concerns.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening Oral cancer screenings are typically performed during your routine dental check-up. The process is quick and painless, involving a thorough examination of your mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues. Here’s what to expect: | • |
Visual Examination: Your dentist will closely inspect your lips, gums, tongue, the roof of your mouth, the insides of your cheeks, and the back of your throat.
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They will look for any discolorations, unusual growths, or sores that could indicate abnormal tissue changes.
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Palpation: In addition to the visual exam, your dentist will feel your head, neck, jaw, and lymph nodes for any lumps or abnormalities.
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Additional Testing (if needed): If your dentist identifies any suspicious areas, they may recommend further tests. These could include:
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Rinses or special lights that highlight abnormal cells.
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Biopsy: A small sample of tissue may be taken from the suspicious area for further analysis. |
At Fairmount Dental Center, we use the latest technology and techniques to ensure the most accurate assessment during your screening. In many cases, we are able to rule out cancer quickly and provide peace of mind on the spot.
Who Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening? While anyone can benefit from an oral cancer screening, it is especially important for individuals who fall into high-risk categories. You may be considered at higher risk for oral cancer if you: | • |
Are over the age of 40.
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Use tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, or smokeless tobacco.
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Consume alcohol regularly or heavily.
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Have a history of excessive sun exposure (increases risk for lip cancer).
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Have contracted HPV (Human Papillomavirus).
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Have a personal or family history of oral cancer. |
Even if you do not have any of these risk factors, routine screenings are still recommended as part of your overall dental health care. Oral cancer can affect anyone, regardless of lifestyle or age, making early detection a crucial part of preventing serious health issues.
How Often Should You Get Screened? At Fairmount Dental Center, we recommend that all adults receive an oral cancer screening at least once a year during their routine dental exam. However, if you fall into a higher-risk category, we may suggest more frequent screenings.
If you notice any signs or symptoms of oral cancer between your scheduled visits, it’s important to contact our office for an evaluation. We’re always here to help.
What Happens If Something Is Found? If an abnormality is detected during your oral cancer screening, don't panic. Not all irregularities indicate cancer, and many conditions can be easily treated. Your dentist will explain the findings and may suggest additional testing to confirm the diagnosis.
In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to further investigate any unusual areas. This involves taking a small tissue sample to be sent to a lab for detailed analysis. If cancerous or precancerous cells are found, your dentist will guide you through the next steps, which may include referral to a specialist for treatment options.
Prevention Tips While oral cancer cannot always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk: | • |
Avoid tobacco in all forms. Whether smoked or chewed, tobacco use significantly increases your risk.
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Limit alcohol consumption. Heavy drinking is another major risk factor.
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Use sunscreen and lip balm with SPF when outdoors to protect your lips from harmful UV rays.
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Get vaccinated against HPV, a virus linked to certain types of oral cancer.
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Maintain good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly for check-ups and screenings.
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Stay aware of any changes in your oral health and report them promptly to your dentist. |
Why Choose Fairmount Dental Center? At Fairmount Dental Center, we believe that prevention is the best medicine. Our highly skilled and compassionate team is dedicated to keeping you healthy, not just through cleanings and cavity prevention, but by providing life-saving services like oral cancer screening. We combine cutting-edge technology with personalized care to ensure that you and your family receive the highest standard of dental treatment.
If you haven’t had an oral cancer screening recently or are due for your regular dental check-up, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Your health is our priority, and we’re here to help you stay informed, comfortable, and confident in your care.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Early detection of oral cancer can make all the difference. Call Fairmount Dental Center at (503) 362-8364 or use our online booking tool to schedule your oral cancer screening today. Together, we can take proactive steps to protect your health. |
