Preventive Oral Screenings for a Long Life of Healthy, Cancer-free Smiles!
Did you know that about 54,000 Americans are diagnosed yearly with mouth (oropharyngeal) cancer? Unfortunately, the American Cancer Society reports that about 11,230 of these patients succumb to the disease! Mouth cancer is a deadly health condition, mainly because many cases are positively identified when the disease has reached advanced, destructive stages.
At Cooper Dental Group, we take your health seriously; that’s why oral cancer screenings are a vital part of our comprehensive dental exams. Once we identify abnormalities in your oral structures, steps are taken to confirm the diagnosis and to start treatment early.
What to expect from an oral cancer exam
An oral cancer test is a simple, painless, and quick procedure that can save your life. Screening involves looking inside your mouth to spot lesions, sores, and white or red patches. Using gloved hands, your dentist probes your mouth to identify lumps, nodes, and other abnormalities. We also physically examine your throat and neck to check for unusual signs.
Some dentists use special tests beyond physical and visual testing. We can rinse your mouth with a special dye before an exam. Abnormal cells may soak up the dye, appearing blue. We can also shine a special light in your mouth. Healthy tissues appear dark, while abnormal ones appear white. We may order further tests like a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis depending on your results.
Why oral cancer screening is important
Like all forms of cancer, detecting mouth cancer early is crucial in treating it successfully. One of the reasons cancer is lethal is that it’s found in its advanced stages. Early cancer detection helps doctors stop cancer before it spreads to other body parts.
Even if you have oral cancer symptoms, it can be challenging to spot them yourself. However, an experienced dentist can see what’s happening inside your mouth and identify anything unusual. This fact makes routine oral exams crucial. We don’t just check your mouth for cavities and gum disease — we scrutinize your oral structures for mouth cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screening
Can oral cancer screening detect issues beyond just cancer?
Yes. During an oral cancer screening, Dr. Perkins and Dr. Tow aren’t just looking for cancerous lesions. They may also spot signs of viral infections, autoimmune conditions, fungal infections like thrush, or benign growths that could still require treatment. Identifying these early allows for timely interventions, protecting your oral health and overall well-being.
How can lifestyle habits affect my oral cancer risk even if I don’t smoke?
Tobacco use is a major factor, but it’s not the only one. Excessive alcohol use, frequent sun exposure (linked to lip cancer), chronic irritation from rough teeth or dentures, poor nutrition, and even a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection can all increase your risk. A personalized discussion during your screening can highlight lifestyle adjustments that may help you reduce your chances of developing oral cancer.
Will I feel anything unusual during an oral cancer screening?
Not at all. The screening process is painless, quick, and non-invasive. Dr. Perkins or Dr. Tow will visually examine your mouth, lips, tongue, and throat and gently palpate the tissues around your jaw, neck, and oral cavity to check for lumps or irregularities. Most patients are surprised by how seamless and simple the process feels — yet it delivers crucial information about your health.
If I have dentures, do I still need an oral cancer screening?
Yes, and it’s just as important. Even if you wear full or partial dentures and have no natural teeth, you’re still at risk for oral cancer. Ill-fitting dentures can even cause chronic irritation, which is a risk factor over time. Regular screenings help examine the soft tissues beneath the dentures for any signs of unusual changes, sores, or patches that might otherwise go unnoticed.
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
For most adults, an annual screening during your regular dental check-up is highly recommended. However, if you have higher risk factors — such as a history of tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, previous cancer diagnosis, or a family history of cancer — Dr. Perkins and Dr. Tow may advise screenings every six months. Early and consistent monitoring offers the best protection.
Can oral cancer develop without causing pain or symptoms?
Unfortunately, yes. Many early cases of oral cancer develop silently, without noticeable pain, lumps, visible sores, or other obvious symptoms. Some changes may be so subtle that only a trained professional can detect them. That’s why regular screenings are essential — they help spot abnormalities before they become serious problems, giving you the best possible chance for successful treatment.
What happens if something suspicious is found during my screening?
If Dr. Perkins or Dr. Tow identify an area of concern, they will explain the next steps in detail. This may include scheduling a follow-up appointment for closer monitoring, ordering a biopsy to test the tissue, or referring you to an oral surgeon or specialist. It’s important to remember that many suspicious findings are benign, but prompt evaluation gives you peace of mind and ensures you stay ahead of potential problems.
Oral Cancer Screening Dentist Near Me in Ormond Beach, Florida
Take control of your health by considering mouth cancer screening in Ormond Beach, FL. Please dial 386-244-9838 to book a comprehensive dental exam with the Cooper Dental Group team to get started. Our dental team provides top-notch dental care to keep you on track for a lifetime of quality oral health.
