Oral Cancer Screenings
An oral cancer screening is an exam that consists of your dentist searching for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth, throat, lips, gums, and tongue. It is both a visual and physical exam that can either reassure you that you have no apparent abnormalities or it can trigger early treatment if apparent problems exist. Oral cancer screenings are essential since the earlier oral cancer is detected, the greater chance you will have for a cure.
Questions?
Oral Cancer Symptoms
While we recommend undergoing an oral cancer screening at least once a year, please schedule a screening immediately if you experience any of these potential symptoms for more than a week without any improvement:
- Pain or difficulty speaking, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue
- Feeling a sensation that feels like something is caught in the back of your throat
- A sore throat with no other sinus symptoms
- Lumps or swellings in or around your mouth
- White or red patches in your mouth
- Mouth sores that do not heal
- Unexplained ear pain
- Unexplained bleeding in your mouth
- Drastic weight loss
Oral Cancer Risk Factors
While anyone can develop oral cancer, that are certain factors that can increase your risks. Some of the most common oral cancer risk factors include:
- Being male
- Tobacco use
- Family history of oral cancers
- Excessive or prolonged exposure to the sun
- Unhealthy diet
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Having gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Oral cancer screenings can save your life. For more information about oral cancer screenings or to schedule an appointment, contact Premier Dentistry today.
