Oral Cancer Screening

Why Oral Cancer Screening Matters

Oral cancer accounts for 2.9% of all diagnosed cases of cancer in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that 51,000 people across the country will develop oral cancer this year, with 10,000 expected fatalities from the disease.

The good news is that early detection saves lives. When caught early, oral cancer is highly treatable. That's why we include a thorough oral cancer screening as part of every comprehensive exam at West Park Dental.

Where Oral Cancer Occurs

Oral cancer can develop anywhere in the mouth and throat, but is most often found on:

• The tongue
• The tonsils and oropharynx
• The gums
• Floor of the mouth
• Lips
• Cheek lining
• Hard palate

Who Is at Risk

While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain factors increase your risk:

• Gender and age: Men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer as women, particularly men over 50
• Tobacco use: Heavy smoking significantly increases risk
• Alcohol consumption: Frequent drinking, especially combined with smoking
• UV exposure: From the sun or sunlamps
• HPV: The sexually transmitted human papillomavirus has led to a recent rise in oropharyngeal cancer
• GERD: Gastro-intestinal reflux disease
• Prior radiation: Head and neck radiation treatment
• Chemical exposure: Certain workplace or environmental chemicals
• Poor nutrition: Inadequate diet

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What to Expect During Your Screening

Your oral cancer screening is quick, painless, and performed as part of your regular comprehensive exam.

First, we'll review your medical and dental histories and ask about any changes to your oral health or overall health. This conversation helps us understand your individual risk factors.

Next, we'll carefully examine in and around your mouth, as well as your head and neck area, looking for any signs or symptoms that may indicate a problem. We check for unusual lumps, sores, discolored patches, or other changes in tissue.

The entire screening takes just a few minutes and could save your life.

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Early Detection Improves Outcomes

Thanks to early detection and advanced treatment methods, the death rate from oral cancer has been decreasing over the past several decades. Regular screenings give us the best chance to catch any problems early, when treatment is most effective.

We recommend oral cancer screenings at every routine dental visit, typically every six months. If you have risk factors or notice any changes in your mouth between visits, please call us right away.