Detect Oral Cancer Early with Oral Cancer Screening

Everyone already has an idea of how serious and dangerous cancer is. It is a serious condition that needs to be monitored and must be detected as early as possible. The most common types that people know are breast cancer, leukemia, lung cancer, colon cancer, skin cancer, and more. However, remember that it is also possible for cancer to develop in the oral cavity.

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat which belongs to a larger group of cancers referred to as head and neck cancers. It also develops mostly in the squamous cells found in the lips, mouth, and tongue. Oral cancers are often discovered after the disease has spread to the lymph nodes of the neck. We at Parklane Family Dentistry encourage our patients to book oral cancer screening without fail for the early detection of the devastating condition and to give a higher chance of survival.

What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening

Visual exam

The major parts of an oral cancer screening involve the face, neck, lips, inside of the nose, and oral cavity. Any removable dental appliances should be taken out to expose every area before proceeding with the examination. 

The dentist will thoroughly look for any asymmetries, bumps, swelling, patches of color, ulceration, or other abnormalities to search for signs of oral cancer. To properly perform the examination, the dentist will use a light and mirror to see the inside of the nose and the mouth. A tongue depressor is used to hold down the tongue and look at the back of the mouth. There are other dental tools used that can help the dentists evaluate the gums, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, tonsils, throat, and underneath the tongue. Usually, the patients will be asked to say “Ahh” to expose areas in the throat that are difficult to see.

Physical exam

During or after the visual exam, the dentist will touch the head, cheeks, around the jaw, under the chin, and mouth to feel and examine any unusual nodules or masses on these areas. The patients will then be asked if they feel any discomfort when the portions mentioned were proded. The symptoms of oral cancer can be painful; however, painless swelling can still be a sign of problems elsewhere.

 

Everyone deserves outstanding dental care services; that is why we provide Oral Cancer Screening in Frisco, TX. Book your appointment with us at Parklane Family Dentistry and let us help you achieve beautiful and healthy teeth!