Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screening is an important part of preventive healthcare, aimed at detecting early signs of oral cancers. It involves a thorough examination of the mouth and surrounding areas by a healthcare provider to detect abnormalities that may indicate cancer. Early detection is crucial as it increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery. During an oral cancer screening, a dentist or healthcare professional carefully examines the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, throat, and other soft tissues for unusual sores, red or white patches, lumps, or any changes in texture. Advanced diagnostic tools such as VELscope, fluorescence imaging, and biopsy may be used to enhance accuracy and identify potential cancerous or precancerous lesions at an early stage.
Causes of Oral Cancer
- Tobacco Use: Smoking, chewing tobacco, and using smokeless tobacco products are the leading risk factors for oral cancer.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Regular drinking, particularly when combined with tobacco use, greatly increases the risk.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Certain strains of HPV, especially HPV-16, are linked to oral cancers.
- Age: The risk increases with age, especially after the age of 40.
- Sun Exposure: For lip cancer, excessive sun exposure is a significant risk factor.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
- Sores or Ulcers: Persistent sores or ulcers in the mouth, lips, or throat that do not heal.
- Lumps or Bumps: Swelling or thickening of the skin or tissues inside the mouth, including the tongue, lips, cheeks, and throat.
- Red or White Patches: Unusual red or white patches (leukoplakia or erythroplakia) in the mouth or on the tongue.
- Bleeding: Unexplained bleeding in the mouth or from the gums.
- Pain or Tenderness: Pain or tenderness in the mouth, throat, or jaw that lasts more than two weeks.
