Oral Cancer Screening Oral cancer is among the many types of cancer that affect millions of people globally. Fifty thousand people in the United States alone have oral cancer each year. This statistic should tell you that it is crucial to get an oral cancer screening at least once a year to detect and treat the problem while it is in its early stages. GOREgeous Smiles welcomes you for an oral cancer screening test at your preferred day and time. The procedure is straightforward and does not involve any pain. What Is Oral Cancer Screening?Oral cancer screening is a health examination test performed on your mouth, head, and neck to determine any precancerous cells. Oral cancer normally appears as a sore or growth and rarely goes away. This is why your dentist may run their finger over your tongue, lips and cheeks to feel any lumps in the mouth. Oral cancer also includes cancer of the sinuses, gums, and throat. The oral cancer screening is usually performed on regular dental visits. The dentist may be required to take X-rays to monitor any signs of lump growth over a specific period. Benefits of Oral Cancer ScreeningsOral cancer screenings may be easily overlooked, but they are necessary as it helps in the early detection of any signs of cancerous growths. When it is detected early, you have a better chance of getting successful treatment. Apart from that, it allows you to start living a healthier lifestyle to prevent other types of cancer. Who Should Have Oral Cancer Examinations?Anybody can request an oral cancer screening to find out if they are at risk of getting mouth cancer. However, specific individuals are at a higher risk of having oral cancer, and it is wise they consider regular dental cancer screening. Patients who smoke or drink heavily are the first group of people that can easily develop oral cancer. This is because smoking damages your lungs and can easily expose you to the risk of getting lip and mouth cancers. Patients who have been diagnosed with cancer before should also take oral cancer screening seriously. How Should I Prepare for a Dental Cancer Screening?There is no special preparation for an oral cancer screening. The dentist will perform all of the procedures, and there is nothing to fear or be anxious about because the procedure is not painful. The dentist will check your mouth for any white or red patches and any sores in your mouth. We will also feel the tissues in your mouth to check if there are abnormalities or lumps in your mouth. Aside from that, other special tests help detect abnormal growth in your mouth. Oral cancer screening dye is one of the tests dentists use. We will ask you to rinse your mouth with a blue dye, and abnormal cells will appear blue after spitting. Another test is the oral cancer screening light. The light will make healthier cells appear darker and abnormal ones will turn white. Visit our GOREgeous Smiles clinic or call us via 480-585-6225 for more information about oral cancer screening. |
