What to Expect at Your Next Oral Cancer Screening

While examining the inside of the mouth is already a typical part of a regular dental check-up, for many people it is also worth scheduling an appointment for an oral cancer screening. The American Cancer Society predicts that more than 53,000 people will be diagnosed with oropharyngeal or oral cavity cancer in 2020, and together these two types of cancers are expected to cause more than 10,000 deaths.

Oral cancer screening is a vital aspect of preventive healthcare, especially for individuals at higher risk due to factors like tobacco and alcohol use, as well as certain viral infections like HPV (human papillomavirus). Screening aims to detect signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions at an early stage when treatment is most effective.

Risk factors

If you are wondering if it is necessary for you to get a cancer screening, it can be helpful to know some of the risk factors. The most common one is smoking, with an even greater likelihood of cancer if that is combined with a habit of heavy alcohol use. It is thought that these two factors may be what account for oral cancer being twice as common in men. Sun exposure is another indicator of concern for lip cancer specifically. Presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV) also has a rising correlation with cancer of the mouth.

Screening process

An oral cancer screening appointment at the dentist in Phoenix, AZ involves a closer examination than is typical for a routine dental cleaning. Here is what can be expected:

A more detailed intake

The dentist in 85053 should ask a number of questions, and it is important to be extremely honest when answering. It is common to dismiss certain symptoms as being no big deal or just one's imagination. Even if it seems like it is nothing, be sure to mention whatever comes to mind during the intake. These are some of the more common symptoms that may be asked about:

• Ongoing hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Earaches, especially one-sided ones
• Feeling small nodules on the side of the neck
• Changes in the voice

Visual inspection

This type of screening entails far more than just looking inside the mouth. The screener also looks at the lips, face and neck to check for any indications of issues that need further investigation.

Physical examination

The screener next conducts a physical examination, using gloved hands to palpate, or touch, the different areas of the mouth, face and neck. This includes checking inside the mouth, underneath the tongue and inside the cheeks and lips, as well as palpating the body and sides of the tongue. The neck and face are also physically examined. At the same time, the professional continues the visual observation of all these areas. Call us to learn more.

Next steps

Depending on the results of the oral cancer screening, patients may be advised about suggested next steps. These may entail further examinations or diagnostic tests if any abnormalities were noticed.

Conclusion

Early detection through regular screening can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and prognosis for oral cancer patients. Therefore, it's essential for individuals to undergo regular screenings, especially if they have risk factors associated with oral cancer.

Request an appointment or call Phoenix Family Dentistry at 602-547-9007 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.