Shedding Light on Oral Cancer Screening: Why It’s Crucial for Your Health
Dr. Kale Eckland constantly emphasizes the importance of routine oral cancer exams. Approximately 53,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Shockingly, the five-year survival rate is only around 60%! Good news! When detected early, the survival rate of mouth cancer can increase significantly.
Eckland Family Dental offers regular mouth cancer screenings to arrest your cancer early before it metastasizes or spreads to other body parts. If you haven’t been screened for mouth cancer in Everett or Redmond, Washington, schedule an appointment today with our team. Rest assured, our screening process is quick, painless, and efficient, ensuring your peace of mind and proactive care.
Symptoms of oral cancer
Oral cancer commonly manifests in the lips, gums, tongue, and mouth palate, although it can affect any part of the mouth. This cancer can be life-threatening when not detected early; that’s why routine screenings are vital.
The common symptoms of oral cancer include:
- A persistent mouth sore
- Unexplained mouth bleeding
- Red or white patches in the mouth lining
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Lumps, bumps, or eroded areas in your lips and other parts
- Dramatic weight loss
- Chronic sore throat or voice hoarseness
If you have the above symptoms, don’t panic! They don’t necessarily mean you have mouth cancer. It is always a good idea to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis, even if you feel fine. Better safe than sorry.
What to expect from oral cancer screening
A mouth cancer exam is a quick and painless procedure. Best of all, you don’t need to schedule a different appointment because it’s done during your routine dental check-up.
Before the procedure, your dentist will ask you to remove any removable appliances (like dentures or Invisalign aligners) to have a clear view of your oral structures. The dentist visually inspects your mouth for signs of patches, lumps, lesions, sores, and other irregularities.
While some signs are visible with the naked eye, we employ specialized tools to allow for thorough scrutiny, even in hard-to-reach areas, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of your oral health.
The dentist also uses gloved hands to check your jaws, neck, and throat for lumps, bumps, and other abnormal masses in your mouth. Should we notice any signs of concern, we can use special dyes and lights to separate abnormal tissues from healthy ones. Should we suspect cancer or pre-cancerous lesions, we’ll refer you to a specialist for a biopsy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screenings
What is an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a routine dental exam to detect early signs of oral cancer. During this exam, the dentist inspects your mouth, gums, tongue, and other areas for abnormalities and may feel your neck and jaw for unusual lumps. Regular screenings are crucial for early detection, improving the chances of successful treatment.
Why is an oral cancer screening important?
Oral cancer screenings are vital because they help detect signs of oral cancer in its early stages, often before symptoms are noticeable. Early detection is key to effective treatment and a better prognosis. People at higher risk—such as those who use tobacco or drink alcohol heavily—should have regular screenings, as they may be more prone to developing oral cancer.
How often should I get an oral cancer screening?
It’s generally recommended to have an oral cancer screening at least once a year during your routine dental check-up. If you have risk factors like smoking, alcohol use, or a family history of oral cancer, your dentist may recommend more frequent screenings. Talk to your dentist to determine the appropriate schedule for your individual needs.
What are the symptoms of oral cancer?
Prolonged throat pain, lumps or thickening in the mouth or neck, trouble swallowing or chewing, persistent mouth sores, and unexplained bleeding are all signs of oral cancer. If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth lasting more than two weeks, seeing a dentist is important. Early detection during screenings helps catch these issues before they become serious.
Is an oral cancer screening painful?
Oral cancer screenings are non-invasive and generally painless. The dentist examines your mouth, tongue, and surrounding areas for abnormalities. You may feel mild discomfort if a biopsy or further tests are needed, but the screening is quick and easy. If you experience discomfort during the exam, inform your dentist so they can adjust as needed.
Can oral cancer be prevented?
There are a few techniques to lower your chance of developing oral cancer, even though not all of them can be avoided. The risk of oral cancer can be reduced by abstaining from tobacco products, using alcohol in moderation, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining proper oral hygiene. Risk may also be decreased by vaccination against HPV, which is connected to some types of mouth cancer. Frequent screenings are still crucial, especially for people with more risk factors.
What happens if an oral cancer screening finds something suspicious?
If a screening reveals suspicious abnormalities, your dentist may recommend additional tests, such as a biopsy, to determine if cancer is present. If cancer is diagnosed, you will be referred to a specialist for further treatment. Early detection offers a higher chance for effective treatment and recovery, so following up on any findings is important.
These screenings are crucial to maintaining oral health, as they can detect oral cancer before symptoms appear. Regular screenings also increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
Oral cancer screening near me
Ready to prioritize your oral health with a comprehensive mouth cancer screening? Schedule your appointment today at Eckland Family Dental. Contact us at (425) 448-6339 for the Redmond office or (425) 249-3830 for the Everett office to reserve your appointment.
