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Home Dental Services Family Dentistry Oral Cancer Screening

Oral Cancer Screening


Smiling older couple leaning cheek to cheekOral cancer screening is a crucial procedure aimed at detecting early signs of cancer in the mouth, throat, and surrounding areas. As with many forms of cancer, early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

What Is Oral Cancer Screening?


Oral cancer screening is a diagnostic process performed by dentists or healthcare professionals to identify abnormalities in the oral cavity. This screening focuses on detecting signs of oral cancers, such as lesions, lumps, or discoloration, as well as pre-cancerous conditions like leukoplakia or erythroplakia.

Oral cancer screening is important for a variety of reasons:
•  Early Detection: The primary purpose of oral cancer screening is to identify cancerous or pre-cancerous changes at an early stage when treatment is most effective.
•  Risk Assessment: Screening helps assess individual risk factors, such as tobacco and alcohol use, which significantly increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer.
•  Education and Awareness: Regular screenings educate patients about oral health and the importance of self-examinations, empowering them to recognize potential warning signs.
•  Improving Prognosis: Early detection can lead to better treatment outcomes, minimizing the need for extensive surgeries and improving the overall prognosis for patients diagnosed with oral cancer.

How Is Oral Cancer Screening Done?


Oral cancer screening typically involves the following steps:
•  Medical History Review: The healthcare professional begins by reviewing the patient's medical and dental history, noting any risk factors or symptoms that may indicate potential problems.
•  Visual Examination: A thorough visual examination of the oral cavity is conducted. The dentist checks for any unusual lesions, lumps, or changes in color on the lips, gums, tongue, and the inside of the cheeks. They also look for signs of swelling or difficulty swallowing.
•  Physical Examination: In some cases, we may perform a physical examination of the neck and jaw to check for enlarged lymph nodes or other abnormalities.
•  Additional Tests (if necessary): If suspicious lesions are identified, we may recommend further diagnostic tests. This could include a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken for laboratory analysis, or imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI to assess the extent of any suspected cancer.

Recovery Information


There is typically no recovery time associated with a standard oral cancer screening, as the procedure is non-invasive and generally quick. If a biopsy is performed, patients may experience mild discomfort or swelling at the biopsy site, which usually resolves within a few days. Patients should follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by their healthcare professional to minimize discomfort and promote healing.

How Long Does it Take to Get Test Results?


The results of an oral cancer screening are immediate in the sense that the healthcare professional can often provide initial feedback during the appointment. However, if a biopsy is taken, results may take several days to weeks, depending on laboratory processing times. Regular screenings are recommended every six months, or more frequently for individuals at higher risk, to ensure ongoing monitoring of oral health.

Oral cancer screening is an essential aspect of preventive healthcare that can lead to early detection and improved outcomes for individuals at risk of oral cancers. Regular screenings not only aid in early diagnosis but also foster awareness about the significance of oral hygiene and self-examinations. Prioritizing oral cancer screening can ultimately save lives, providing peace of mind and a pathway to better health.

Schedule Your Appointment today!


If you are interested in learning more about Oral Cancer Screening, please call (971) 374-5600, and schedule your appointment today!


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Lakeview Dental Center, 2601 25th St SE Suite 430, Salem, OR 97302 / (971) 374-5600 / dentistinsalem.com / 1/14/2025 / Page Keywords: dentist Salem OR /