How Often Should You Get an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer may affect any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, or inside of a cheek. While oral cancer is most usually painless in its early stage, early detection becomes key to such kinds of cancers being treated more effectively and with much better results. But how often does one need an oral cancer screening? Let us break it down: the essentials.
Understanding Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is an abnormal growth of tissues in or around the mouth. It can affect the lips, tongue, gums, roof of the mouth, or inner cheeks. The risk factors include tobacco use, heavy alcohol exposure, and infection with human papillomavirus. Early signs may be very subtle; therefore, regular screening is important for people who are considered at great risk.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
- Oral sores or ulcers that do not heal
- Painful, bleeding areas in the oral cavity
- Red, white patches on the tongue, gum, or cheek
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swelling, lumps in the mouth or neck area
An immediate consultation with your dentist is highly recommended if any symptom is seen. Such issues could be identified during regular oral cancer screenings.
How Often Should You Get Screened for Oral Cancer?
Your risk level and health status are just two factors your doctor will take into consideration to decide the frequency at which you are tested for oral cancer. Here is a general guide:
- Regular dental visits: include regular oral examination for cancer. Your dentist will recommend you on how often you should return for an examination, based on your dental condition and your medical history.
- High-risk conditions are those with a previous history of tobacco use, alcohol abuse, or familial cancer and might require screening every 3-6 months.
- After Cancer Treatment: regular follow-ups, as the disease may recur. Your health provider will recommend the frequency depending on your case.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
An oral cancer screening is quite quick, painless, and usually part of the routine dental check-up. Here is what you can expect:
- Visual examination: Your dentist will visually examine your mouth, lips, tongue, gums, and the inside of your cheek for any abnormal change, such as sores, lumps, or discoloration.
- Physical Examination: Your dentist might also use his hands to feel for irregular lumps or swelling along the neck, throat, and even the area of the jaw.
- Diagnostic Tests: Biopsy may be recommended by the dentist in suspicion of an area.
- Discussion and Recommendations: The dentist will explain any findings with you, when necessary, and outline the further action that needs to be taken. This could involve further tests/diagnostics or a referral to a specialist.
Why Regular Screenings Matter?
Regular oral cancer screenings may lead to early detection, which often has better treatment and recovery prospects.
For regular oral examination, Razavi Dental provide everything, from oral cancer screening to personalized care. For comprehensive check-ups and services, our experts team in Philadelphia does all this on spot. Never wait for the symptoms to arise; an oral cancer screening can be set up today. For more info or appointment scheduling, call us at (215) 996-7030.