Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects thousands of people every year. Despite the advances in medicine, oral cancer often goes undiagnosed until it reaches an advanced stage, making it more difficult to treat effectively. However, with early detection through regular oral cancer screening in Fall River, MA, patients can significantly improve their chances of successful treatment and survival. By visiting a dentist in Fall River, MA, for routine screenings, you can ensure that any signs of oral cancer are caught early and the condition itself is treated promptly, leading to better outcomes.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer refers to the abnormal growth of malignant cells in any part of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, gums, inner lining of the cheeks, the roof of the mouth, and the floor of the mouth. It falls under the category of head and neck cancers and can affect anyone, although certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Oral cancer can develop silently, with few noticeable symptoms in the early stages. This is why routine screenings are so important for early detection. 

Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?

While oral cancer can develop in anyone, certain lifestyle factors and health conditions can increase the risk. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals be more vigilant about getting screened regularly. Some of the most common risk factors for oral cancer include:

• Tobacco use: Smoking or using smokeless tobacco (such as chewing tobacco or snuff) significantly increases the risk of developing oral cancer. Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of this disease.
• Heavy alcohol consumption: Frequent, excessive alcohol use is another major risk factor for oral cancer. When combined with tobacco use, the risk increases dramatically.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): HPV, particularly strain 16, has been linked to a growing number of oral cancer cases, especially in younger individuals.
• Prolonged sun exposure: Extended exposure to the sun, especially without protection, can lead to lip cancer.
• Poor diet: A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables can also increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
• Age: The risk of oral cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in individuals over the age of 50.
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women, in part due to higher rates of tobacco and alcohol use among men.

If you have one or more of these risk factors, it is crucial to schedule regular oral cancer screenings in Fall River, MA, with your dentist to monitor for early signs of the disease. 

The Importance of Early Detection

Like many other cancers, oral cancer is most treatable when detected early. Unfortunately, many cases of oral cancer are diagnosed at a late stage, when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. This makes treatment more difficult and reduces the likelihood of a successful outcome. Early detection through routine oral cancer screening in Fall River, MA, can help identify abnormal growths or precancerous lesions before they become more serious. 

When detected early, oral cancer has a survival rate of approximately 80 to 90%. However, the five-year survival rate drops significantly when diagnosed at a later stage. This stark difference underscores the importance of regular screenings, especially for those at higher risk. 

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening in Fall River, MA, is quick and painless. It can be performed during your routine dental checkup. The screening involves thoroughly examining the mouth, throat, and surrounding areas for any signs of abnormal tissue, lesions, or suspicious growths. 

Here’s what you can expect during an oral cancer screening with your dentist in Fall River, MA:

• Visual examination: Your dentist will visually inspect your lips, gums, tongue, the roof and floor of your mouth, and the back of your throat for any signs of discoloration, sores, lumps, or irregularities. They will also check for swelling or asymmetry in your facial and neck areas.
• Physical examination: Using their hands, your dentist will feel for any lumps or unusual masses in the tissues of your mouth, neck, and jaw. This tactile examination helps identify abnormalities that may not be visible.
• Additional diagnostic tools: Some dental offices may use specialized diagnostic tools, such as fluorescent lights or dyes, to enhance the detection of abnormal tissue. These tools can help highlight areas of concern that might otherwise go unnoticed during a visual and physical examination.

The screening only takes a few minutes. And while it may seem routine, it could be lifesaving. If your dentist in Fall River, MA, identifies any suspicious areas, they may recommend further testing, such as a biopsy, to determine whether cancerous cells are present. 

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Awareness of the potential warning signs of oral cancer is essential. While routine screenings are the most effective way to catch oral cancer early, being informed about the symptoms can also prompt you to seek care sooner. Common signs and symptoms of oral cancer include:

• A sore or ulcer that does not heal within two weeks
• Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
• Lumps or thickening in the tissues of the mouth or neck
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
• Unexplained numbness in the mouth or lips
• Pain in the ear without hearing loss
• Loose teeth not related to dental issues

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to contact a dentist in Fall River, MA, for an evaluation as soon as possible. Early intervention could make all the difference. If you notice any of the above symptoms, contact us immediately at Dentistry With A Smile, LLC, for the best oral cancer screenings.

Preventing Oral Cancer

While not all cases of oral cancer are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Here are a few key preventive measures:

• Quit smoking: If you use tobacco, quitting is the most effective way to lower your risk of oral cancer.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Reducing your alcohol intake, especially in combination with quitting tobacco, can significantly lower your risk.
• Protect your lips from the sun: Use lip balm with SPF protection and avoid prolonged sun exposure to reduce the risk of lip cancer.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help protect your cells from damage and lower your cancer risk.
• Get vaccinated against HPV: The HPV vaccine can help prevent oral cancer related to the virus.
• Schedule regular screenings: Routine oral cancer screening in Fall River, MA, is the best way to catch any signs of oral cancer early.

Conclusion

Oral cancer is a serious oral health condition, but it can be effectively treated if detected early. Regular oral cancer screening in Fall River, MA, by your dentist in Fall River, MA, is a simple, painless process that can identify potential problems before they become life-threatening. If you are at higher risk for oral cancer due to lifestyle factors or age, it is especially important to prioritize these screenings. Early detection could save your life, so don’t hesitate to schedule your screening today.

So schedule an appointment with us at Dentistry With A Smile, LLC, 920 Plymouth Avenue, Fall River, MA 02721. For bookings and consultations, call (508) 672-6471. Please visit our official website to learn more about our various services.