Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer is a devastating and severe oral condition affecting the mouth and its surrounding tissues. Every year, approximately 30,000 oral cancer cases are diagnosed in the United States, taking almost 7,000 lives as a result. 

Oral cancer is a broad term that describes cancer in any part of the oral cavity. Oral cancer can be further divided into two categories - those occurring in the oral cavity and those in the oropharynx that include tongue base, tonsils, soft palate, and pharyngeal walls.

It is vital to constantly check for the condition to detect the disease in its initial stage and get treated. Early detection can help significantly reduce the chances of stopping the disease spread and reducing the fatality rate. 

Oral cancer - symptoms

Check for the following symptoms to detect oral cancer in its beginning stage itself. 

• Red or white patches in the mouth. 
• Pain or numbness in lips or mouth. 
• The difficulty in movement of the tongue or jaw.
• Wound or tissue decay in the mouth that doesn't heal even after a long time. 
• Cysts or tumors in the soft tissues and gums.
• Painful hard lumps in the mouth.
• Discoloration of certain areas in the mouth when compared to surrounding tissues.
• Sores on the mouth's inner lining that release pus. 

How do we screen for oral cancer?

• Physical Examination 

At Brighter Day Dental, we conduct oral cancer screening during every routine visit. A physical and visual exam is the primary method to examine the mouth and throat for any signs of sores or lesions. 

• Endoscopy

Another method dentists use to discover oral cancer in patients is endoscopy. It also helps to detect oral tumors in the throat. If your dentist finds anything suspicious during the endoscopy, they will conduct a biopsy.

• Biopsy

A biopsy is conducted by scooping some cells of the suspicious area to subject them to tests. Your dentist will recommend a biopsy if he detects some unusual sores or lesions during the physical examination. The biopsy is an effective way to discover oral cancer, as it allows thorough examination of the cells inside the mouth. 

Benefits of oral cancer screening

• Oral cancer screening allows the detection of oral cancer at an early stage; this will improve the chances of getting successful treatment and cure. 
• The procedure of oral cancer screening is relatively inexpensive compared to the cost of treating the disease. 
• Oral cancer screening is a simple and easy procedure.

How to prevent oral cancer

It is essential to take steps to prevent oral cancer by practicing certain lifestyle habits. You can significantly reduce the risks of developing oral cancer by following these practices:

• Quit the use of tobacco products, including smoking. 
• Avoid the consumption of excessive alcohol. 
• Eat a well-balanced and nutritious diet. 

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, please call Brighter Day Dental, Dentist in Concord CA, at (925) 356-2828 or schedule an appointment online.