Can Your Dentist Screen You for Oral Cancer?

Someone gets an oral cancer screening from their dentist, showing that it's a simple and easy process.

Dentists play a critical role in maintaining oral health and safeguarding overall well-being. Regular, comprehensive check-ups are essential because they allow for the early detection of dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay and other health issues like cancer. The state of our oral health often reflects our general health; conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart disease can manifest symptoms in the mouth. 

Your dentist is one of the first healthcare professionals who can detect the early signs of oral cancer. They conduct oral cancer screenings during routine dental checkups to monitor for abnormalities or warning signs. It’s a simple yet important step towards protecting your overall well-being since early detection gives you the best chance to seek treatment.

What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is a quick and painless examination performed by your dentist to identify potential signs of oral cancer. Oral cancer screenings help detect abnormal cells or changes in the tissues of your mouth, which may indicate the early stages of cancer or precancerous conditions.

The earlier oral cancer is caught, the more successful the treatment tends to be. This is why it is so important to include oral cancer screenings in routine dental checkups.

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

Here’s what you can expect during your screening:

  • Visual Examination: Your dentist will examine your entire oral cavity, including your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, the roof and floor of your mouth, and the back of your throat.
  • Physical Examination: Using their hands, they’ll gently feel your jaw, neck, and lymph nodes for any unusual lumps, swelling, or tenderness.
  • Additional Tools: Some dentists use innovative technology, such as fluorescent light, to highlight abnormal tissues.

The process is brief but crucial for early detection of potential issues.

Types of Oral Cancer Tests

If your dentist spots anything concerning, they may recommend follow-up tests to confirm a diagnosis. Some of these tests include:

  • Biopsy: A small sample of tissue is taken for lab analysis to confirm whether cancer cells are present.
  • Barium Swallow Test: This test helps detect abnormalities in areas like the mouth, throat, or esophagus.
  • Endoscopy: A thin, flexible scope is used to examine areas that are harder to see, such as inside the nose or the larynx.
  • Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans can provide detailed images to determine if any lesions or growths exist and whether they’ve spread.

While a screening alone doesn’t diagnose cancer, additional testing can offer clarity and guide the next steps in treatment.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Early diagnosis often hinges on recognizing the symptoms of oral cancer. Be proactive about your health and watch for the following signs:

  • Persistent sores in your mouth that don’t heal
  • Unexplained pain or swelling in your mouth or jaw
  • Lumps or thickened areas in your cheek or tongue
  • Red or white patches on your gums, tongue, or mouth
  • A sore throat or a sensation of something stuck in your throat
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking clearly
  • Loose teeth or ill-fitting dentures
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • A change in your voice

If you notice these symptoms, book an appointment with your dentist and family doctor immediately. 

What Are the Known Risks of Oral Cancer?

While oral cancer can develop in anyone, certain factors increase the risk. Here are some of the most common risk factors to be aware of:

  • Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco significantly raises the risk of oral cancer.
  • Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Drinking heavily, especially combined with tobacco use, multiplies the risk.
  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Certain HPV strains linked to throat infections can increase susceptibility.
  • Prolonged Sun Exposure: This primarily raises the risk of lip cancer, particularly for those working outdoors.
  • Weakened Immune System: A compromised immune system can make you more vulnerable to developing oral cancer.
  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Ignoring oral hygiene or skipping regular dental checkups can increase your chances of developing oral cancer.
  • Genetic Factors: Conditions like Fanconi anemia or dyskeratosis congenita are known genetic risks for oral and throat cancers.

Understanding these risks empowers you to take proactive measures to protect your health.

Prevention Is Key

Someone holds a model of a set of teeth, with a cigarette being bitten down on, emphasizing the importance of not smoking.

It’s always better to prevent than treat. Protect yourself by maintaining good oral hygiene, which starts with brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once daily. Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol, using sunscreen to protect your lips, and scheduling regular dental checkups are also ways to help prevent the damage caused by oral cancer.

Take Charge of Your Oral Health

Oral cancer screenings are a critical element of routine dental care—they’re your first line of defense against potential illness. By staying informed, monitoring your symptoms, and scheduling regular checkups, you can proactively manage your oral health.

If it’s been more than a year since your last dental checkup, this is your reminder! Reach out to our team at Chinook Village Dental and schedule a visit, including an oral cancer screening. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference.