Everything You Need To Know About Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that can affect the mouth, lips, throat or other areas of the face. It can affect any part of the oral cavity, including the lips, gums, roof of the mouth, front part of the tongue, the floor of the mouth, back of the throat, and salivary glands.

Causes of Oral Cancer

Cancer of the mouth can be caused by many things. Some of the most common causes include tobacco use (smokeless or smoked), excessive alcohol use, poor diet, and excessive sun exposure. When oral cancer is detected early on, it can often be easier to treat. That’s why it’s so important to come in for routine oral cancer screenings.

Who Should Be Screened?

Everyone should undergo oral cancer screenings at least once a year! However, you should be screened more frequently if you have risk factors. These may include:

• Smoking
• Drinking alcohol
• Oral HPV infection
• Poor oral hygiene
• Long-term use of steroid medications
• Heavy metal fillings
• Poor overall health
• Family history of oral cancer

How Is Oral Cancer Detected?

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, most oral cancers are first identified by your dentist during a routine oral exam by an oral cancer screening. Your dentist will check your face, neck, lips, and mouth for any abnormal or suspicious areas. Your dentist will also look for any unusual symptoms, such as lumps, bumps, or swelling.

If your Dentist Livermore CA, does find an area of concern, they will refer you to an oral surgeon or oncologist for further testing. Through an oral cancer screening, the dental team is able to catch oral cancer in its earliest stages and before it has spread. This is the best way to ensure that oral cancer is diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

What Are The Benefits of Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer screenings are an important preventative measure for the early detection of oral cancer. Early detection can enable your dentist to provide early treatment that is less invasive and more effective. When oral cancer is identified in its initial stages, it is easy to provide more successful treatments.

How Is Oral Cancer Treated?

Your Dentist in Livermore, CA, may recommend a biopsy in which a small piece of tissue is removed and analyzed. A biopsy is the only way to tell if you have oral cancer.

If oral cancer is diagnosed, treatment may include:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy

Your Dentist in Livermore, CA, will decide which treatment is best for you based on:

• Your age and health
• The type and stage of oral cancer

Alta Vista Dental provides all the dental services with the expertise of experienced dentists. Call at 925-292-1459 and book your appointment to learn more ways to take care of your oral and dental health.