Are You at Risk? Who Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer can develop in the mouth, lips, tongue, cheeks, or throat. Many people assume that only smokers or heavy drinkers need to worry about oral cancer, but the truth is that anyone can develop it. So, how do you know if you're at risk? And who should get screened? Today’s article will help you understand the importance of oral cancer screenings, who should get them, and how you can reduce your risk.

What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is a simple and painless examination performed by a dentist to check for early signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth. The goal is to detect abnormalities. When detected early, the chances of successful treatment are significantly higher. 

What Happens During a Screening?

Your dentist will typically perform:

A Visual Examination: Checking the lips, gums, tongue, roof and floor of the mouth, inner cheeks, and throat for any unusual sores, discoloration, or swelling.

A Physical Examination: Feeling for lumps, hardened tissues, or irregularities that might not be visible.

Possible Additional Testing: If anything suspicious is found, further tests like a biopsy or special light examination may be recommended.

An oral cancer screening is quick, non-invasive, and can be performed during a routine dental checkup.

Why Early Detection Matters

Like many cancers, oral cancer is most treatable when caught early. The five-year survival rate for oral cancer detected at an early stage is around 85%, but it drops significantly if diagnosed later.

Common Symptoms of Oral Cancer

While screenings are the best way to catch oral cancer early, you should also be aware of potential warning signs, including:

• Persistent sores or ulcers that don’t heal within two weeks
• White or red patches inside the mouth
• A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck
• Difficulty swallowing or persistent sore throat
• Numbness in the mouth, lips, or chin
• Unexplained pain in the mouth, jaw, or ears

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an oral cancer screening with your dentist as soon as possible.

Who Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening?

While oral cancer screening should be part of everyone’s routine dental care, certain individuals are at higher risk and should be particularly proactive about getting checked.

High-Risk Individuals:

• Tobacco Users: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, as well as using smokeless tobacco, significantly increases the risk of oral cancer.
• Heavy Alcohol Consumers: Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to a higher likelihood of developing oral cancer, especially when combined with tobacco use.
• People with HPV: The human papillomavirus (HPV) has been associated with an increased risk of throat and oral cancers.
• Family History of Oral Cancer: If close relatives have had oral cancer, your risk may be higher due to genetic factors.
• Prolonged Sun Exposure: Chronic sun exposure increases the risk of developing cancer on the lips.

Other At-Risk Groups:

• Adults Over 40 (Especially Men): Oral cancer is more common in older adults, and men are at a higher risk than women.
• People with Poor Oral Hygiene: Chronic gum disease, untreated infections, and poor dental hygiene can contribute to a higher risk of oral cancer.
• Those with a History of Oral Precancerous Lesions: If you've had abnormal cell growth in your mouth in the past, regular screenings are crucial to preventing oral cancer.
• Anyone Experiencing Persistent Symptoms: If you have recurring sores, pain, or other concerning symptoms, get an oral cancer screening as soon as possible.

How Often Should You Get Screened?

For most people, an oral cancer screening is recommended once a year during a routine dental checkup. The good news is that these screenings take just a few minutes and could make all the difference in detecting oral cancer early.

What Happens If Something Suspicious Is Found?

If your dentist detects an abnormality during an oral cancer screening, don’t panic. Most suspicious areas are not cancerous, but further evaluation is necessary to rule out any risks. Your dentist may also order a biopsy, CT scan, or refer you to an oral surgeon for additional evaluation and treatment.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Oral Cancer

While some risk factors (such as genetics) are beyond your control, there are several ways to reduce your likelihood of developing oral cancer:

• Avoid Tobacco Products: Quit smoking or chewing tobacco to significantly lower your risk of oral cancer.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Reduce alcohol intake, especially when combined with tobacco use.
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups help keep your mouth healthy.
• Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides antioxidants that may help prevent cancer.
• Use Lip Protection: Apply lip balm with SPF and wear a hat when exposed to the sun for long periods.
• Get the HPV Vaccine: Protect yourself against HPV-related oral cancers.

An oral cancer screening is a simple but crucial step in protecting your health. While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain individuals are at a higher risk and should be particularly vigilant about screenings. Be proactive about your oral health and schedule your oral cancer screening at Baker Pediatric Dentistry today.

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