All You Need to Know about Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer can be described as the uncontrolled growth of cells in the mouth. This type of cancer occurs as a sore in the mouth, which doesn’t go away. Oral cancer is a collective term referring to cancers of the cheek, lips, floor of the mouth, and tongue. If not diagnosed, early treating oral cancer is hard.
Oral cancer is quite different from other common types of cancer since its symptoms do not show in the early stages. The only way to identify oral cancer in its early stages is through screening. You can get affordable oral cancer screening services at Smile Huntington.
What Are The Signs of Oral Cancer
Even though oral cancer does not present any clear symptoms in its early stages, there are some signs that may indicate a problem. If you have any of these signs, we advise you to visit our dentists in Huntington, NY, for oral cancer screening. With cancer, the sooner you take action, the higher chances of treating it.
- Persistent Swelling and sores in the mouth, neck, and face that last for more than two weeks
- Unexplained ear pains
- Constant and unexplained oral bleeding
- Problem speaking, chewing, and swallowing
- Persistent sore throat
Why Do You Need Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is an examination done to identify any signs of oral cancer. The main reason why oral cancer screening is done is to detect cancer in its early stages to increase the chances of curing it. Oral cancer screening is quick, and it will only take a few minutes, unlike screening for other types of cancer.
Our dentists in main st huntington recommend that you go for oral cancer screening at least twice a year. We can perform an oral cancer screening when you come in for your routine exam or cleaning. Once our dentists suspect oral cancer biopsy will be carried out.
Oral Cancer Risk Factors
These factors increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
Tobacco
Tobacco use has been linked to many types of cancer, including oral. All types of tobacco, including chewing tobacco, cigarettes, and cigars, are discouraged. Using tobacco for a long time puts you at a higher risk of developing oral cancer. Continued use of tobacco after successful oral treatment could also increase the risk of developing oral cancer again.
Previous Cancer
People who previously had oral or any type of cancer are also at a higher risk of developing oral cancer again. It is advisable that you quit smoking and drinking if you previously had cancer.
Alcohol
Alcohol also is a serious risk factor for oral cancer. Higher consumption of alcohol will put you at a higher risk of developing oral cancer. There is an even higher risk if you use both tobacco and alcohol.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
This is a group of many different types of related viruses. Most of these viruses are sexually transmitted. They are known to infect both male and female sexual organs. In the case of oral sex, these viruses will infect both the mouth and the throat.
Oral Cancer Screening May Call for Additional Tests
Not all sores in your mouth are cancerous. The only problem is that screening can’t identify cancerous from non-cancerous ones. Our dentist in main St Hunting will recommend a biopsy if he finds any unusual sore.
Preparing For Oral Cancer Screening
Unlike screening for other types of cancer, oral cancer screening doesn’t require much preparation. Our dentist will check inside your mouth for any mouth sores or white patches. Our dentist will also check for lumps by feeling the tissues in your mouthing using his hand.
Other Additional Tests You Should Expect
Our dentists may use other special tests besides the normal oral screening. These additional tests will involve the following.
Use of Oral Cancer Screening Light
Here a special light that when shined in your mouth will make diseased tissue appear white while healthy tissues appear dark is used.
Use of Oral Cancer Screening Dye
Our dentists will rinse your mouth with an oral cancer screening dye before the examination. Abnormal tissues will appear blue upon taking up the dye.
Consult a Dentist Near You
At Smile Huntington, we have a team of certified and qualified dentists in Huntington Beach. Our other friendly staff will make your experience memorable. Call or book an appointment with our dentist near you for oral cancer screening.