Oral Cancer Screening in Dalton
Oral cancer kills one person, every hour of every day (oralcancer.org). The challenge of oral cancer is that it is not especially noticeable until it has reached an advanced state.
Our dentists and dental hygienists provide an oral cancer screening for our patients as part of the dental examination process.
Oral Cancer Screening Exam
During this exam, the dentist and hygienist will take a close look at the oral soft tissues, tongue, inside the cheeks and the roof and floor of the mouth. If they notice any discolorations, rough patches or lesions they may recommend further testing or follow up.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer:
- Any sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal within 14 days
- A lump in the mouth or on the tongue
- A feeling that something is stuck in your throat or difficulty swallowing
- A spot in the mouth that bleeds easily
- Discoloration in the mouth (red, black or white)
Causes of Oral Cancer
As with most cancers, a direct cause of oral cancer is not clear. Patients that have been diagnosed with oral cancer often have a history of tobacco use (in any form) and high alcohol consumption. While not biologically linked, oral cancer occurs more frequently in African American patients; males are twice as likely to develop oral cancer vs. women.
Oral Cancer is linked to HPV
In the past, oral cancer patients have typically been middle-aged (55-65); however, a younger group of patients has emerged over the last few years related to the HPV16 virus (Human papillomavirus). HPV16 is mainly transmitted through sexual contact. This is the fastest growing sector of oral cancer patients; unfortunately, there are no obvious signs of HPV16 viral infection, making early detection even more challenging. There is a vaccine available for children and teens against the HPV16 virus, but no cure.
The Best Defense against Oral Cancer is Regular Screening
Some patients develop oral cancer for no clear reason at all. Limiting your alcohol consumption and stopping tobacco use, along with regular oral cancer screenings by your dentist are important steps that you can take to minimize your risk of oral cancer.
Treatment for Oral Cancer
With early detection, the treatment outcomes for oral cancer are encouraging. The first step is to confirm the diagnosis and type of oral cancer through laboratory testing. Our dentists work with oral surgeons and local physicians to support our patients through the diagnostic and treatment process. Each case is unique; treatment may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy or surgery depending on the stage of cancer and other areas (i.e., throat, neck, digestive tract) that have been affected.
Make the Call.
If you have a mouth ulcer or discoloration in the mouth that has not healed in 14 days, please Contact Us to be seen. Even with non-cancerous lesions, it is important to identify the type and occurrence to establish a baseline to help us monitor your oral health.