Oral Cancer Screening Charlotte, NC
Dentists use an oral cancer screening to check for any signs of oral cancer in the mouth. Oral health can impact more than just the mouth, particularly when it comes to oral cancer. Although the word cancer can be alarming, an oral cancer screening is a routine assessment that is conducted by a dentist or dental assistant as part of general precautionary care.
Dentists are not only concerned about the health of teeth but also consider the relationship between oral health and overall health. Do you want to learn more about oral cancer? For more information about oral cancer screenings, our team at Randolph Dental Care in Charlotte is here to help. Call us at (704) 366-3622 to learn more.
Signs That Could Indicate a Need for a Screening Test
Many people who receive care from a dentist receive oral cancer screenings even though they do not have any signs of a specific need for the test. Oral cancer screenings, similar to screenings for tooth decay or gum disease, are typically a component of a routine dental check-up.
Some people may have specific signs that might indicate a need for an oral cancer screening, including:
- A change in the mouth tissue, such as a thickening, or rough spot
- An ulcer, or eroded area of the mouth
- Discolorations, such as new red or white patches in the mouth
- Hoarseness, sore throat, or feeling of something stuck in one’s throat
- New problems such as difficulty with speaking, moving one’s tongue or jaw, closing one’s teeth together, chewing, or swallowing
- Pain or numbness in the lips or other mouth structures
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Weight loss
If a patient experiences one of the above symptoms, particularly if it is changing quickly or causing pain, an oral cancer screening can help put their mind at ease.
“This is because oral cancer screenings, similar to screenings for tooth decay or gum disease, are typically a component of a routine dental check-up.”
Groups at High Risk for Oral Cancer
Certain groups may benefit from regular oral cancer screenings more than others. Common risk factors include but are not limited to:
- A history of oral cancer
- Certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Regular consumption of a lot of alcohol
- Excessive amounts of time spent in the sun
- Tobacco use, in any form
Patients may find it beneficial to consult a professional about their medical history to better determine their risk for oral cancer.
“Some groups may benefit from regular oral cancer screenings more than others.”
Limitations of Oral Cancer Screenings
Although regular oral cancer screenings are integral to maintaining good health, Mayo Clinic points out that it may be difficult to detect abnormal cells through a simple visual exam. Thus, there is always a possibility that a small sign of cancer or precancerous lesion could go undetected.
A group of unusual cells does not always mean that the patient has cancer. Rather, the patient will have to undergo a biopsy to get a definitive answer. If it is cancerous, then early detection will afford the patient more treatment options.
While the evidence does not yet link screenings with reduced oral cancer deaths, regular screenings may help identify cancers early at a time when remission is more likely.
“While the evidence does not yet link screenings with reduced oral cancer deaths, regular screenings may help identify cancers early at a time when remission is more likely.”
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When Would a Dentist Advise a Test?
An oral cancer screening is simple enough to be performed during every check-up, and the American Dental Association recommends a thorough evaluation of the oral cavity during a regular exam.
For most patients, a dentist will advise a routine dental visit every six months, so some form of oral cancer test may be administered twice yearly. Some dentists may conduct a more formalized oral screening at a different interval. For patients who have a history of oral cancer or who have significant oral cancer risk factors, a dentist may conduct more frequent oral screenings.
“For most patients, a dentist will advise a routine dental visit every six months, so some form of cancer screening may be administered twice yearly.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer?
Q. What are the limits of oral cancer screenings?
Q. Are there any additional tests after oral cancer screenings?
Q. What are signs of oral cancer?
Q. How often should a patient get an oral cancer screening?
People Also Ask
Q. What is gum disease and what causes it?
Additional Tests After Oral Cancer Screenings
Depending on the patient's situation, the dentist may perform special tests in addition to the basic screening. More in-depth oral cancer screenings can involve the patient rinsing their mouth with blue dye to make any unusual cells more visible. Additionally, the dentist may choose to shine a light in the patient's mouth during the exam. This light will "highlight" abnormal tissue by making it appear white.
If any of these tests find signs of oral cancer or any possibly cancerous lesions, then the patient should undergo a biopsy. This procedure consists of removing a sample of cells for laboratory testing. The patient may also need to make a follow-up appointment to see if the abnormal area has grown or changed since detection.
“Depending on the patient’s situation, the dentist may perform special tests in addition to the basic screening.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How common is oral cancer?
A. According to the American Dental Association, more than 50,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. While this is intimidating, you can lower your risk of developing oral cancer by avoiding tobacco and alcohol. It is also wise to stay on top of oral health by following a regular check-up schedule.
Q. How much does drinking influence oral cancer?
A. The American Cancer Society notes that people who drink heavily are more likely to develop oral cancers than those with light or no alcohol intake. People who pair heavy drinking with heavy tobacco smoking increase their risk even further. The people who combine these activities have a risk of oral cancer that is 30 times higher than those who abstain from alcohol and tobacco.
Q. How can I prevent oral cancers?
A. The most important thing you can do to prevent the development of oral cancer is to avoid using tobacco products. Limiting your alcohol intake can also reduce your risk. Because of the association between oral cancers and HPV, it is also recommended that preteens get two doses of the HPV vaccine, as this could prevent oral cancers.
Q. What is a biopsy?
A. If the dentist identifies a suspicious area in the mouth during oral cancer screening, he or she may recommend a biopsy. A biopsy is a procedure that removes a small piece of tissue so that it can be examined more closely, by a pathologist. This may be done using several different methods, including a needle, a scalpel, or a specialized tool. Some dentists perform their own biopsies, and others coordinate with other types of healthcare professionals, such as otolaryngologists.
Q. Who is most at risk of developing oral cancer?
A. Besides those who drink heavily and use tobacco, those with certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) tend to develop it at higher rates. Also, men develop it at higher rates than women. Those with poor nutrition or who are overweight, are also at higher risk.
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Dental Terminology
Learn More Today
Regular oral cancer screenings may help stop the disease before it has the chance to spread. At Randolph Dental Care, we can help figure out the best preventative care plan for you. Call us at 704-366-3622 to schedule an appointment today.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
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