Fast, Easy Screenings For Early Detection
At Framingham Family Dental Care, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive dentistry that takes every aspect of your oral health into account. In addition to closely evaluating your teeth and gums, we also perform fast, easy oral cancer screenings at every checkup. Although this devastating disease is on the rise, the survival rate is 85%-90% when it’s found early. If you’re overdue for a checkup with a dentist in Framingham and you’d like to be proactive about your oral health, contact us today to schedule an appointment. After your visit, you’ll have a healthier smile and peace of mind from getting one of these important screenings.
What Causes Oral Cancer and How Common Is It?
Sadly, an estimated 53,000 people in the U.S. (or 132 people each day) are diagnosed with oral cancer each year, and one person will die from it every hour. It’s helpful to be aware of the following risk factors, but keep in mind that oral cancer can also be found in people who have no risk factors:
- Age – Although the risk goes up with age, over 25% of new cases occur in people younger than 55.
- A weak immune system
- HPV (human papillomavirus)- Oral cancer is increasingly being found in young, healthy people who don’t use tobacco. Researchers believe HPV may be to blame.
- Tobacco use or heavy drinking
- Frequent or severe sunburns – Sun damage increases the risk for melanoma, a type of cancer often found on the lips.
What Is a Screening Like?
Oral cancer screenings are automatically included in every checkup and take just minutes. We’ll start by visually inspecting your lips, cheeks, throat, palate, and underneath your tongue. We’ll also check for any lumps, bumps, or tender areas on your neck and under your lower jaw.
If we see any questionable areas (red or white patches, callous-like tissue, asymmetrical ulcerations, or swelling), we may ask you to come back in 10-14 days to take another look or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation. This gives you the crucial advantage of early detection, when treatment is most effective. With that said, keep in mind that finding something suspicious isn’t a cancer diagnosis. There are many non-cancerous conditions (such as lumps of fatty tissue) that simply need to be ruled out as benign.
The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings
The importance of finding oral cancer early can’t be overemphasized. With just two simple, non-invasive screenings per year, you’re giving yourself the best chance for early detection and effective treatment. And since they’re already included in your routine checkups, they couldn’t be easier.
Also, while professional screenings are essential, it’s also a good idea to watch for the following signs and symptoms between visits:
- Any sores or lesions that haven’t healed within two weeks.
- Changes in your voice.
- Stiffness or pain in the jaw.
- Feeling like something is always stuck in your throat.
- A lump or bump that’s only developed recently.
- A sore throat that won’t go away.
- Trouble chewing or swallowing.
Oral Cancer Screenings FAQs
What is an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless exam performed by a dentist or healthcare professional to check for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues. It involves visually inspecting the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and throat for abnormalities such as lumps, red or white patches, or sores that don’t heal. Sometimes, special tools or dyes may be used to highlight suspicious areas.
Why are oral cancer screenings important?
Oral cancer screenings are crucial because early detection significantly improves treatment success and survival rates. Oral cancer can develop without pain or obvious symptoms initially, so regular screenings help catch problems before they become advanced or spread. Detecting oral cancer early can mean less invasive treatments, better outcomes, and a higher quality of life.
How often should I get an oral cancer screening?
Most dental professionals recommend an oral cancer screening once a year during your routine dental check-up. However, if you have risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, a history of oral cancer, or are over age 40, more frequent screenings might be advised. Your dentist can customize the schedule based on your individual risk profile.
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will visually examine your mouth, lips, tongue, gums, roof and floor of your mouth, and throat. They look for any unusual signs like lumps, thickened tissues, sores, or colour changes. The dentist may also feel your neck and jaw area to check for swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, adjunctive tools like a special light or dye may help detect abnormalities not visible to the naked eye. The process is quick, non-invasive, and typically only takes a few minutes.
What are the early signs and symptoms of oral cancer?
Early signs of oral cancer can be subtle. Common symptoms include persistent sores or ulcers that don’t heal, red or white patches in the mouth, unexplained lumps or thickening of the tissues, difficulty swallowing or chewing, numbness or pain in the mouth or lips, and a persistent sore throat or hoarseness. You must see your dentist or doctor immediately if you notice any signs lasting longer than two weeks.
Who is at risk for developing oral cancer?
Several factors increase the risk of developing oral cancer. The most significant include tobacco use in any form (cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco), heavy alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure (especially affecting the lips), human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, a history of oral cancer, older age (typically over 40), and a weakened immune system. Men are generally at higher risk than women. Understanding your risk can help you and your dentist decide how often you should be screened.
Can oral cancer be prevented?
While not all oral cancers can be prevented, many cases are linked to lifestyle choices and can be reduced by avoiding known risk factors. Quitting tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption are the two most effective preventive measures. Using lip balm with sunscreen, maintaining good oral hygiene, eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and getting vaccinated against HPV can also lower your risk. Regular dental visits with oral cancer screenings play a key role in early detection and prevention.
Protect Your Health with Early Detection
Oral cancer can develop silently, but with regular screenings at Framingham Family Dental Care, you can take a proactive step toward protecting your health. Our team uses advanced techniques to identify early warning signs that may go unnoticed. A quick, painless screening during your regular checkup can make a world of difference when it comes to early intervention and successful treatment. Don't overlook the importance of protecting your overall well-being through preventive dental care. Schedule your oral cancer screening with us today and confidently prioritize your health. Call Framingham Family Dental Care at (508) 665-2016 to book your appointment and gain peace of mind knowing you're caring for your future.
