Oral cancer isn’t something we hear about often, but it’s just as serious as other types of cancer. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), around 40,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year in the U.S. Sadly, many people don’t get screened, even though catching it early makes it highly treatable.
At Concord Smiles, we believe that complete health includes regular oral cancer screenings. We offer screenings as part of your routine check-up or as a separate service. It only takes a few minutes and could save your life! Give us a call at 603-225-2042 to learn more about how easy it is to get screened.
What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
- Lumps or bumps in your mouth
- Mouth pain that spreads to your jaw, ears, or neck
- A sore throat or persistent cough that won’t go away
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Swollen or painful lymph nodes
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
Am I at Risk for Oral Cancer?
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Here are a few common ones:
- Smoking or using tobacco, including cigars, pipes, e-cigarettes, or marijuana
- Heavy alcohol use
- Sun exposure without sunscreen, especially on your lips
- Poor oral hygiene
- A family history of oral cancer
- Being over 40
- A compromised immune system
- A previous diagnosis of oral cancer
Additionally, certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) are linked to oral cancer, particularly in the tonsils and tongue. This makes regular screenings especially important, even for younger people under 40.
How Often Should I Get Screened for Oral Cancer?
With oral cancer cases on the rise, it’s more important than ever to stay on top of your screenings. During your visit, we’ll go over your health history and recommend how often you should get screened.
For high-risk patients, we generally recommend a screening every six months. For patients under 40 with a lower risk, annual screenings are typically sufficient. If you’ve tested positive for HPV recently, we suggest scheduling an oral cancer screening as soon as possible.
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening at our office is quick, gentle, and non-invasive. Here’s what you can expect:
- We’ll start with a visual exam, checking for any abnormal tissue or discoloration in your mouth.
- Using a tongue depressor, we’ll carefully examine the area around your tongue and the tissues inside your mouth.
- We’ll then feel inside your cheeks to check for any lumps or bumps that could indicate a problem.
We also use advanced technology, like fluorescent lights and special dyes, to catch any abnormalities that aren’t visible to the naked eye. And don’t worry—it’s completely painless and doesn’t require anesthesia unless a biopsy is needed.
What Happens If You Find Something Suspicious?
What Can I Do to Prevent Oral Cancer?
The saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” couldn’t be truer when it comes to oral cancer. Here are a few ways to lower your risk:
- Avoid smoking, tobacco, and heavy drinking.
- Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your lips when you’re out in the sun.
- Perform self-checks every time you brush your teeth—run your tongue along the inside of your mouth and check for any unusual lumps, sores, or discoloration.
If you notice any persistent sores or symptoms that seem like a lingering cold, it’s best to schedule a screening as soon as possible.
Contact Us Today for an Oral Cancer Screening
At Concord Smiles, we’re committed to keeping your smile healthy—and that includes life-saving screenings for oral cancer. If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment, give our friendly team a call at 603-225-2042. We proudly offer comprehensive oral cancer screenings and holistic dental care for the whole family right here in New Hampshire.
