Oral Cancer Screenings
Early Oral Cancer Screening Matters
At Sunrise Dental Center, we strongly encourage you to schedule an oral cancer screening. Many people overlook this life-saving measure, but oral cancer claims a life every day in the United States. The high mortality rate is largely due to the fact that most people don't seek medical help until the cancer is advanced. Early detection and treatment are crucial for a better chance of survival, and the earlier the disease is detected, the easier it is to treat.
Is an Oral Cancer Screening Common?
Unfortunately, most people do not undergo regular oral cancer screenings. This is why the disease often goes undetected until later stages. At Sunrise Dental Center, we recommend that you schedule your first screening if you haven't had one. After that, we generally suggest screenings every two years. If you're located in or near Huntington Beach, CA, contact us at (714) 890-1700 to schedule your screening.
What Does an Oral Cancer Screening Involve?
During an oral cancer screening at Sunrise Dental Center, we will visually check for signs of abnormal tissue, such as red or white patches, lumps, or rough spots inside your mouth. We'll also palpate your cheeks and inside your mouth while wearing gloves to detect any unusual lumps or hard areas. The screening is non-invasive and gentle. We may also use advanced technology to enhance the examination, which we will discuss with you during your visit.
How Often Should I Have an Oral Cancer Screening?
After your first screening, the frequency of future exams will depend on your individual risk factors. For high-risk patients, we may recommend annual screenings. Our team will guide you on the best schedule based on your health and lifestyle.
Who Is At Risk for Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can affect anyone, not just older men, as was once thought. While smoking and alcohol use have traditionally been the leading causes, research has shown that HPV (Human Papillomavirus) also plays a role. This means that both men and women of all ages—including teens—are now at risk. People who smoke, drink alcohol, or have been diagnosed with HPV should be particularly vigilant. We recommend that all adults receive regular oral cancer screenings.
Do You Treat Oral Cancer?
At Sunrise Dental Center, we do not treat oral cancer, but we play a critical role in its early detection. If we find signs of oral cancer or pre-cancer, we may perform a biopsy to send tissue samples for further testing. If necessary, we will refer you to an oncologist for additional tests and treatment options.
When Should I Call for a Screening?
You are your first line of defense in detecting oral cancer. Regularly check your mouth after brushing by running your tongue along your cheeks, gums, and the roof of your mouth. If you notice any rough patches, lumps, or changes in your teeth, keep an eye on them for a few days. If they don't go away, schedule an appointment with us for an oral cancer screening. Also, if you notice unexplained tooth movement, it's a sign that something may be wrong, and cancer could be the cause.
How Can I Prevent Oral Cancer?
Here are the best ways to reduce your risk of oral cancer:
- Stop using smokeless tobacco: It increases the risk of oral cancer by up to 60 times.
- Quit smoking: All forms of tobacco use, including smoking, increase your oral cancer risk.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake increases your risk.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Avoid excessive sun exposure to prevent lip cancer.
- Get the HPV vaccine: Speak to your doctor about vaccination options for preventing HPV-related oral cancer.
Oral cancer screenings are an essential part of maintaining your overall health. Contact Sunrise Dental Center to schedule your screening today.