What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is a process to look for cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth. It’s performed by your dentist during a routine check-up and it usually takes a few minutes. though quick, it plays a critical role in identifying early-stage oral cancers Often before symptoms become noticeable.

How Is Oral Cancer Checked?

During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will check the tissues in your mouth for any signs of cancer or precancerous conditions through a visual and hands-on exam. This usually involves looking at all surfaces of the lips, top and sides and underneath the tongue, inner cheeks, the gums and the roof and floor of the mouth. Your dentist will also check for any abnormal signs like sores that won’t heal, red or white patches, lumps and changes in color and texture. Your dentist may also gently check (palpate) your neck, jawline and under your chin for swollen lymph nodes or other possible signs of a health problem. In some cases dentists may use a special light, rinse, or dye to highlight abnormal tissue.

When Should You Suspect Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer might not always present with obvious symptoms early on, but there are warning signs you can look for. Those include a sore that doesn’t heal, persistent pain in the mouth, pain while chewing or swallowing, a sore throat that won’t go away, or a lump in the mouth or neck. If any of these symptoms persist for two weeks or longer, you should request an oral cancer screening from your dentist or doctor.

Where Do I Go to Check for Oral Cancer?

Most people can receive an oral cancer screening in their typical dental office. Dentists are trained to detect the warning signs and to refer you to a specialist, if necessary. In cities such as Philadelphia, dental schools, cancer centers and public health clinics may provide screenings, some at lower cost or as part of educational campaigns. If you haven’t been screened recently and if you live in or near Philadelphia, give us a call to book your appointment today.

Would Oral Cancer Show Up in Blood Work?

It is important to know that oral cancer does not show up on a blood test. An actual diagnosis relies more on physical exams, biopsies or other types of imaging such as X-rays or CT scans. Blood tests might be useful in monitoring overall health or detecting cancer elsewhere in the body, but they are not reliable for detecting oral cancer specifically.

Oral Cancer Screening in Philadelphia

Early detection is one of the most powerful tools in the fight against oral cancer. A routine oral cancer screening will give you peace of mind and help you get ahead of any problems before it becomes serious. Whether or not you have symptoms, especially if you smoke or drink regularly, discuss with your dentist about scheduling a screening. If you live in Philadelphia, Our dentists will provide high-quality care and guidance to answer all your concerns. For more information about oral cancer, Treatments, or supporting groups, please get in touch with our team at Razavi Dental.