New Port Richey Dentist

Oral Cancer Exam

The bad news is oral cancer is more common than you might think: It kills more Americans each year than either skin or cervical cancer. The good news is the survival rate increases dramatically for oral cancer patients when the cancer is diagnosed and treated in its early stages.

There are two types of oral cancer: oral cavity cancer, which starts in the mouth; and oropharyngeal cancer, which develops in the part of the throat behind the mouth.

Men are at twice the risk of developing oral cancer, as are people older than 35. In fact, more than half of oral cancer patients are 68 and older. But that doesn’t mean you have to live in fear, because just like the Moorish proverb says, “He who fears something gives it power over him.”

Give Yourself an Oral Cancer Exam

Oral cancer doesn’t have to be an unwelcome surprise — you can take an active role in detecting it. If you think you might be at risk, give yourself an oral cancer exam at least once a month.

Look for warning signs inside the mouth such as:

- White or red spots, patches or lesions
- Lumps, rough spots or crusted areas
- A change in the way your teeth fit together

And watch out for other symptoms including:

- A change in your voice
- A lump in your neck
- Drastic weight loss

If you detect any of these symptoms and they persist for more than two weeks, see your dentist or doctor.

What to Expect from a Professional Oral Cancer Exam

Your dentist can perform an oral cancer exam as a standalone appointment, or during one of your regular dental visits. A professional oral cancer exam is painless and quick and involves the following :

- Mouth Exam — Your dentist looks at the roof and floor of your mouth, as well as the back of your throat.

- Tongue Exam — Your dentist checks the base of your tongue and its underside for swelling or abnormal color or texture.

- Lips and Cheeks Exam — Your dentist examines the insides of your lips and cheeks to check for signs such as red or white patches.

- Jaw and Neck Exam — Your dentist feels the area under your jaw and the side of your neck to check for lumps that may suggest cancer.

Any areas that look suspicious need a biopsy. You can rest assured, however, that biopsies are quick and painless and the only way to know for sure if you have oral cancer.

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