Oral Cancer Screening

An oral cancer screening is a preventive examination performed by our Dentists or a healthcare professional to detect early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth, throat, and surrounding areas. The screening involves a visual and tactile examination to identify abnormal tissues or lesions.

• Early Detection: Identify cancer at an early, more treatable stage.
• Increase Survival Rates: Improve prognosis and survival rates with early intervention.
• Prevent Progression: Help prevent the progression of precancerous conditions to cancer.
• Promote Awareness: Raise awareness about risk factors and preventive measures.

During an oral cancer screening at Grand Avenue Dental Care you can expect:

• Visual Examination: The dentist inspects the mouth, lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and throat for any abnormalities such as sores, white or red patches, and lumps.
• Tactile Examination: The dentist feels the tissues in your mouth and throat for any unusual masses or lumps.
• Special Tests: In some cases, additional tests like toluidine blue dye, brush biopsy, or light-based detection systems may be used to highlight abnormal areas.

Oral cancer screenings are recommended for:

• Adults over 40: Especially those with risk factors.
• Tobacco users: Including smokers and smokeless tobacco users.
• Heavy alcohol consumers: Frequent alcohol use increases risk.
• Individuals with HPV: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a risk factor for oral cancer.
• History of cancer: Those with a personal or family history of cancer.

Risk factors for oral cancer include:

• Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless tobacco.
• Heavy alcohol consumption: Increases risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.
• HPV infection: Human papillomavirus, particularly HPV-16.
• Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun increases the risk of lip cancer.
• Age and gender: Higher risk in males over 40.
• Poor diet: Diets low in fruits and vegetables.
• Family history: Genetics can play a role in cancer risk.

• Follow-Up Tests: We may recommend additional diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy, to determine if the abnormality is cancerous.
• Referral: You may be referred to a specialist, such as an oral surgeon or an oncologist, for further evaluation and treatment.
• Stay Informed: Ask questions and seek information about your condition and the recommended tests or procedures.
• Early Action: Promptly follow through with all recommended tests and appointments to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
• Support: Consider seeking support from friends, family, or support groups to help you cope with the stress and uncertainty.