How Can You Get Screened For Oral Cancer? Schedule a Checkup With a Dentist!

Did you know that oral cancer is on the rise? Dentists and doctors have been alarmed that it’s being found more frequently, even in younger people who have never smoked. The good news? You can get screened easier than you may have thought by simply scheduling regular checkups with a dentist. As with all cancers, early detection is key. And, since most people don’t spend time looking at all the nooks and crannies in their mouth, these visits are an opportunity to let your dentist do that for you. Learn more about oral cancer below and how you can reduce your risk!

What is the Prevalence of Oral Cancer?

Sadly, an estimated 50,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed annually with oral cancer. Risk factors include excessive sun exposure (especially without lip protection), tobacco and alcohol use, HPV, and a weakened immune system. It’s also important to note that, even with none of these risk factors, people can still develop oral cancer.

Here are some things you can do to reduce your risk:

• Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Give up, or never start using, tobacco in any form.
• Schedule regular checkups.
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear a lip balm with sun protection.
• Abstain from alcohol or limit it to one drink per day for women or two drinks per day for men.

What Is a Screening Like?

One of the best things about an oral cancer screening is that it’s simple, non-invasive, and convenient. In fact, although it’s included in every checkup, it’s easy to miss that you’re even having one!

While a dentist is doing an exam to look at your teeth and gums, they’re also looking closely at all the soft tissues in your mouth. And, since two pairs of eyes are better than one, dentists and hygienists both spend time looking at the lips, cheeks, throat, palate, and under the tongue.

And, as always, being self-aware is important. If you notice any of the following symptoms in between visits, schedule an exam to have it evaluated:

• A chronic sore throat.
• A lump or bump that suddenly develops.
• A sore that hasn’t healed on its own within two weeks.
• Pain or difficulty with chewing or swallowing.
• Stiffness or pain in the jaw.
• A persistent feeling that something is stuck in your throat.

With this said, there are many benign, non-threatening conditions that can exhibit these symptoms, such as a cold sore or a lump of fatty tissue, so don’t panic if you notice something.

A dentist will either diagnose the issue or refer you to a specialist. Either way, being checked by a professional will give you peace of mind.

The most effective type of healthcare is prevention and early detection. And, when it comes to oral cancer, it’s as easy as scheduling regular checkups!

About the Author

Dr. Jayme Martinez is a family dentist and a graduate of the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. In addition to helping his patients achieve great dental health, he also helps them lead healthy, happy lives by providing comprehensive dental care and an oral cancer screening at each visit. If you have any other questions about oral cancer or would like to schedule a checkup, he can be reached through his website.