Oral Cancer Screenings: What You Need to Know for Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, where experts strive to educate people about the risks, warning signs, and importance of early detection. Oral cancer is a serious yet often overlooked health issue that can develop in the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat.

Unfortunately, many cases go undiagnosed until the disease has reached an advanced stage, making treatment more challenging. The good news is that early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.

Today, Shelby Dental will explore the importance of raising awareness about oral cancer, the early warning signs to watch for, and what you need to know about oral cancer screenings.

Why Awareness Matters for Oral Cancer

Many people don’t realize just how common oral cancer is. It accounts for nearly 3% of all cancer cases worldwide. Despite this, there’s still a lack of awareness, which leads to late diagnoses and more difficult treatments. Knowing what to look for and getting regular screenings can make all the difference.

Oral Cancer Prognosis: Why Early Detection is Key

The outlook for oral cancer depends on how early it’s diagnosed. When caught in its early stages, the five-year survival rate is high. But if the cancer spreads, that number drops significantly. That’s why getting checked regularly is so important.

Your overall health, the location of the cancer, and how advanced it is all play a role in your prognosis. The earlier it’s detected, the more treatment options you have and the better your chances of recovery.

Signs For Oral Cancer: What to Watch For

Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes. Some common symptoms to watch for include:

• Persistent mouth sores, lumps, or thickened areas in the cheek that don’t heal
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Unexplained bleeding or numbness
• Difficulty swallowing, changes in voice, or persistent ear pain

If any of these symptoms last for more than two weeks, it’s important to see a professional. The earlier a problem is identified, the better the chances of successful treatment.

How Valid Are Dentist Checks For Oral Cancer?

Dentists play a key role in spotting oral cancer early. During a routine exam, they check for unusual sores or growths that you might not notice on your own. Their training helps them recognize subtle warning signs before they become serious problems.

Regular dental visits aren’t just about cavities and cleanings—they’re also an important step in catching serious health issues early. Dentists use their expertise and special screening tools to assess any suspicious areas. If something looks concerning, they can recommend further testing or a specialist referral.

How Oral Cancer Screenings Work

Oral cancer screenings are quick and painless. Dentists use a few different methods to check for abnormal tissue in the mouth:

• Visual and Physical Exam: The dentist looks for unusual spots or sores and feels for any lumps or changes in texture.
• Special Light Screening: Some dentists use tools that help detect abnormal tissue that may not be visible under normal light.
• Biopsy: If a suspicious area is found, a small sample of tissue may be taken and tested for cancerous cells.

Checking Yourself for Oral Cancer

While dental visits are important, self-exams can also help catch early signs of oral cancer. It only takes a few minutes and can be done at home. Here’s how:

1. Stand in front of a mirror and look inside your mouth for any sores, lumps, or color changes.
2. Feel around your cheeks, gums, and tongue for any unusual growths or tenderness.
3. Check for ongoing throat discomfort, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing.

If anything seems off and doesn’t go away within two weeks, schedule a checkup.

What Increases the Risk of Oral Cancer?

Some habits and lifestyle choices can increase the chances of developing oral cancer. The biggest risk factors include:

• Tobacco Use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are among the leading causes of oral cancer.
• Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Drinking excessively, especially when combined with tobacco use, raises the risk.
• HPV Infection: Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) are linked to throat and mouth cancers.
• Sun Exposure: Too much sun can lead to lip cancer, so using lip balm with SPF helps.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting oral health can increase the risk of developing oral cancer.

While some risk factors, like genetics, can’t be changed, making healthy choices can lower the risk. Quitting tobacco, drinking in moderation, and keeping up with dental care all make a big difference.

What Happens if Oral Cancer is Diagnosed?

If oral cancer is detected, treatment will depend on the stage and location of the cancer. The main treatment options include:

• Surgery: This involves removing the cancerous tissue, sometimes along with nearby healthy tissue, to ensure all cancer cells are gone.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams are used to destroy cancer cells, often as a follow-up to surgery.
• Chemotherapy: Powerful drugs are used to kill cancer cells, sometimes in combination with other treatments.

Your doctor will discuss the best treatment plan for your specific case. Advances in medical treatments mean that many people diagnosed with oral cancer can recover successfully, especially when it’s caught early.

Take Charge of Your Oral Health: Schedule Your Next Dentist Appointment Today

Early detection can save lives. By knowing the signs of oral cancer, keeping up with regular dental visits, and doing self-exams, you actively protect your health. If you notice anything unusual, don’t ignore it—schedule a check-up as soon as possible.

At Shelby Dental, we make oral cancer screenings part of your regular dental care. Call us today to book your appointment and stay on top of your health!
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Early Detection Saves Lives – Book Your Appointment With Shelby Dental

Regular checkups can catch early signs of oral cancer, giving you the best chance for successful treatment. At Shelby Dental, we make dentist appointments comfortable, easy, and stress-free. Call us now to book your appointment and give your teeth the care they deserve.

You can conveniently schedule your appointment by calling (205) 235-3371 or by filling out our online contact form.