Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects thousands of individuals every year. At Dr. Naveen Samuel in Sacramento, CA, and his team are committed to your oral health, which involves providing proactive measures such as oral cancer screening. 

What Is Oral Cancer? 

Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the tissues of the mouth or throat. This can include the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth (palate), and throat (pharynx). Oral cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase your risk, such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. 

Importance of Oral Cancer Screening 

Early Detection Saves Lives 

Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Oral cancer screening allows for the identification of abnormalities or precancerous lesions in the mouth before they develop into cancerous growths. When detected early, oral cancer is more treatable, requiring less aggressive treatment. 

Routine Screening as Preventive Care 

Routine oral cancer screening is a proactive approach to your oral health care. Even if you do not have any symptoms or risk factors, regular screenings are essential. Your dentist is trained to detect subtle changes in the oral tissues that may indicate early signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. 

Quick and Painless Procedure 

Oral cancer screening is a noninvasive and painless procedure that can be performed during your regular dental checkup. It involves a visual and physical examination of the mouth, lips, tongue, throat, and surrounding tissues to look for any abnormalities, lesions, or discolorations. Contact us to learn more. 

What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening 

Visual Examination 

Lips and face: Your dentist in Sacramento, CA will examine the lips and face for any unusual changes in color or texture. 

Inside the mouth: Using a small mirror, your dentist will inspect the gums, cheeks, roof of the mouth (palate), tongue, and floor of the mouth for sores, white or red patches, or other abnormalities. 

Throat and neck: Your dentist may also feel the lymph nodes in your neck and examine the throat for any signs of swelling or lumps. 

Additional Screening Tools 

Oral cancer screening devices: Some dental offices use special screening devices such as VELscope or ViziLite that emit fluorescent light to detect abnormal tissues that may not be visible to the naked eye. 

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer 

Several factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer: 

• Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless tobacco (chewing tobacco, snuff) significantly increases your risk. 
• Heavy alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol excessively, especially combined with tobacco use, further increases the risk. 
• HPV infection: Certain strains of HPV (human papillomavirus), particularly HPV-16, are associated with an increased risk of oral cancer. 
• Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight without protection can increase the risk of lip cancer. 
• Age: The risk of oral cancer increases with age, particularly after age 45. 
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women. 
• Poor oral hygiene: Neglecting oral hygiene can contribute to the development of oral cancers. 
• Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables could increase the risk of oral cancer. 

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer 

It's essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer and to promptly report any changes to your dentist or healthcare provider. Common symptoms include: 

• Persistent mouth sore that does not heal 
• Persistent mouth pain or discomfort 
• Red or white patches in the mouth 
• Lump, thickening, or rough spot in the mouth or throat 
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw or tongue 
• Sore throat or feeling that something is caught in the throat 
• Swelling or numbness in the jaw 
• Changes in voice or speech 

What Happens if an Abnormality Is Detected? 

If your dentist identifies any abnormality during the oral cancer screening, further evaluation may be recommended. This can include: 

• Biopsy: A small sample of tissue may be collected and sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination to determine if cancer cells are present. 
• Referral to a specialist: Depending on the findings, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon or oncologist for further evaluation and treatment. 

Tips for Oral Cancer Prevention 

While certain risk factors for oral cancer cannot be controlled, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk: 

• Quit smoking and tobacco use: If you use tobacco products, quitting can significantly reduce your risk of oral cancer. 
• Limit alcohol consumption: Drink alcohol in moderation or avoid it altogether. 
• Practice safe sun exposure: Use lip balm with SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors for extended periods. 
• Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. 
• Eat a healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants and can help protect against oral cancer. 
• Have HPV vaccination: Speak with your healthcare provider about the HPV vaccine, which can protect against certain strains of the virus associated with oral cancer. 

Conclusion 

Regular oral cancer screening is a vital part of preventive dental care at Samuel Dental Care in Sacramento, CA. Dr. Naveen Samuel and his team are dedicated to your oral health and well-being, offering comprehensive screenings to detect oral cancer early when treatment is most effective. 

By understanding the importance of oral cancer screening, recognizing risk factors, and staying vigilant about symptoms, you can take proactive steps to protect your oral health and overall health. Schedule an appointment with Samuel Dental Care today for your next dental checkup and oral cancer screening. Your health and peace of mind are our priorities. 

Remember, early detection saves lives. Stay informed, stay healthy, and let Samuel Dental Care be your partner in maintaining a healthy smile for life.