Oral cancer frequently goes unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage. Since there are no symptoms, it cannot be detected without a professional check. If it has reached the stage where one notices symptoms, such as pain or swallowing difficulties, it might already be spreading.
Routine screenings for mouth cancer are effective at detecting irregularities before they become problems. One way to detect this type of cancer is to perform an oral screening to identify symptoms that could be treated earlier.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is described as any kind of cancer that occurs in the tissues of one’s mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Like many other cancers, this one is also quite challenging to detect in its early stages because it is symptomless. It is therefore imperative to ensure regular screening to detect early stages before it is too late. In most cases, this type of cancer reaches an advanced stage when it is left undetected.
Why are Oral Cancer Screenings Important?
One preventive care approach to detect irregular growths or changes in an individual’s mouth, tongue, and throat is oral cancer screenings in Huntington Beach, CA. Although many individuals find a connection between lifestyle-related behaviors, such as smoking or excessive drinking, resulting in the occurrence of this type of cancer, the truth is that individuals with or without such lifestyles are prone to risk.
Huntington Beach, located in California, is known for its outdoor activities and access to beaches, with the sun a key part of outdoor living. However, if you find yourself at Huntington State Beach soaking up the sun, do not forget about the link between sun exposure and the risks of lip cancer. You can prevent lip cancer by protecting your lips with sunscreen and hats. However, regular screenings of this type of cancer will also keep you safe.
The Screening Process
Generally, an oral cancer examination can be performed during a routine dental visit. The dentist will check your mouth and oral areas for any signs of abnormalities. They can even check your lips and throat to check for any signs of this type of cancer. They can also check your neck and jaw for swelling. The entire process will take no more than a few minutes.
While it is a simple test, it is life-saving. Early detection of cancer and pre-cancerous cells is important for easy treatment and possibly a successful outcome. The earlier it is diagnosed, the better for preventing complications.
Who Should Get Screenings?
It has been established that everyone should undergo screenings for cancer in the oral cavity. However, it is imperative to note that people over 18 should prioritize these exercises in particular. Although it may be the case that certain risk factors can predispose someone to this type of cancer, it should also be noted that anyone can end up with this type of cancer despite these risks.
Those who have a family history of cancer or have felt unusual changes in their oral functions, such as soreness in the mouth, swallowing difficulties, and lumps in the mouth, should seek screenings more often because cancer detected at an earlier stage has treatment methods that are less severe.
What are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
Indeed, mouth cancer may not always show overt symptoms during the early stages of the condition, and that’s why screening becomes so important. With the progression of the condition, this type of cancer may cause the following symptoms:
- Unknown lumps or thickening in your mouth, jaw, or neck
- Persistent sores or ulcers that don’t heal
- Swallowing difficulties and/or pain
- White or red areas in the mouth or on the tongue
- Persistent sore throat or voice change
If you or someone you know is having any of these symptoms, it is important to seek help right away. When symptoms are treated promptly, they are easier to overcome.
Why Choose Regular Screenings?
Routine screening for oral cavity cancer is also important for maintaining your overall oral health. This is because, in addition to giving you an opportunity to check for cancer symptoms, they also help evaluate your oral health and identify other problems before they become major issues.
Oral Cancer Awareness for Your Lifestyle
Being in Huntington Beach and with all the outdoor activities that come with the environment, people are all cognizant of the sun and its link to lip cancer. Going to the pier at Huntington Beach or just relaxing at Huntington Beach City might seem like a lot of harmless fun and games. However, protecting our lips from the sun’s detrimental effects could save us from lip cancer and possibly even other forms of cancer due to its correlation to lip cancer itself.
Moreover, staying conscious of your oral health is also helpful. This will ensure you stay healthy in the long run. Awareness, along with precautions, helps keep you protected from health hazards.
Protect Your Health with Regular Screenings
Oral cancer screenings can and should be a big part of your health goals. Early detection is the best way to a cure and to stop its growth. The truth of the matter is that screenings can easily be missed, but this can be the difference between life and death.
If you or someone in your family has oral health concerns or is overdue for a routine screening, do not delay seeking care. Contact us at Sunrise Dental Center today and schedule an appointment. Early detection is often key to optimal health and well-being.
FAQs
- What is an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a simple, non-invasive exam where a dentist checks your mouth, throat, and neck for signs of cancer. It’s essential for early detection and better treatment outcomes. - How often should I get an oral cancer screening?
It is recommended to get an oral cancer screening every year, starting at age 18. If you’re at higher risk, such as being a smoker or having HPV, you may need more frequent screenings. - Can I perform an oral cancer self-exam?
Yes, self-exams can help you detect changes in your mouth. However, they cannot replace professional screenings. Dentists are trained to spot signs of cancer that might go unnoticed by the untrained eye. - What are the main risk factors for oral cancer?
Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, HPV, and sun exposure. Regular screenings help identify cancer early, even if you don’t have these risk factors. - Are oral cancer screenings painful?
No, oral cancer screenings are quick and painless. Your dentist will visually inspect and gently palpate the area around your mouth, neck, and jaw to identify any potential issues.
