The technique of discovering cancer before symptoms develop is known as screening. This can aid in the detection of cancer at an early stage. It may be easier to treat aberrant tissue or cancer if it is discovered early. Cancer may have spread by the time symptoms show. Mouth cancer is defined as any malignancy of the mouth. A dentist or dental hygienist will examine several parts of the mouth that you may not have considered. The screening includes your mouth cavity and any associated tissues, including the neck, sinuses, larynx, and pharynx.
What is oral cancer screening?
Before proceeding, here is an overview of oral cancer screening. Oral cancer screening is a procedure in which a dentist or doctor examines your mouth for symptoms of cancer or precancerous diseases. The objective of oral cancer screening is to detect mouth cancer as early as possible when there is a better possibility of a cure. During a normal dental visit, most dentists will examine your mouth to check for oral cancer. Certain dentists may employ additional tests to aid in the identification of areas of abnormal cells in your mouth.
Screening Devices for Oral Cancer
Your oral care professional may need to utilize specialized examination devices during an oral cancer screening. These are some examples:
- An oral brush biopsy, extracts cells for testing in a painless manner.
- A fluorescent light-based improved oral evaluation system tool for identifying questionable oral tissues.
- An oral lesion screening that employs the use of a mouth rinse to aid in the visual examination of your mouth’s tissues.
Why is oral cancer screening done?
Oral cancer screening seeks to detect mouth cancer or precancerous lesions that may develop into mouth cancer at an early stage when the disease or lesions are easiest to remove and most likely to be treated. People at high risk of oral cancer may benefit more from screening, however, studies have not conclusively shown this. The following factors can increase the risk of developing mouth cancer:
- Tobacco use in any form is prohibited, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff.
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Previous diagnosis of oral cancer
The number of persons diagnosed with mouth and throat cancers has been increasing in recent years, but the reason is unknown. Human papillomavirus, a sexually transmitted infection, is linked to an increasing number of these malignancies.
The necessity of oral cancer screenings
The significance of early detection of oral cancer cannot be emphasized. With just two easy, non-invasive screenings every year, you can increase your chances of early identification and effective treatment. And because they’re already part of your routine checks, they couldn’t be simpler. While professional screenings are important, it’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for the following signs and symptoms between visits:
- Any open sores or lesions that haven’t healed in two weeks.
- Changes in your tone of voice.
- Jaw stiffness or discomfort
- You get the sensation that something is continuously trapped in your throat.
- A lump or hump that has recently formed.
- A throbbing sore throat that won’t go away.
- Having difficulty chewing or swallowing.
We hope that this blog has provided you with proper knowledge about the importance of oral cancer screening. If you’re searching for the best oral cancer screening service in Winchester, VA, visit Smiles of Virginia. We provide a full range of dental procedures to meet all of your oral needs.