Oral cancer screenings are essential for detecting early signs of cancer. At Dental Care of Rosewood, we put our patients’ health at the forefront of each treatment. That’s why we recommend adding oral cancer screenings to your regularly scheduled appointments.
Oral Cancer Indicators
As cancer cells multiply and spread, they often cause abnormal tissue growth in the oral cavity. You might notice some common indicators that occur along with the tissue growth, including:
- Numbness or tingling sensations on your lips, tongue, or the insides of your cheeks
- Discolored areas around your gums and other oral tissues
- Mouth sores that bleed and don’t heal
- Oral tissues with abnormal textures such as lumps, roughness, or bumps
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
When we perform an oral cancer screening, we typically use sight and touch to determine whether you should seek further testing. We’ll visually check the inside of your mouth for discoloration or sores. Then, we’ll run a gloved finger along your gums, tongue, cheeks, and teeth to seek out any concerning textures.
When to Call About an Oral Cancer Screening in Columbia, SC
You should schedule an oral cancer screening at our practice in Columbia, SC, if you have any of the following risk factors:
- Constant sun exposure
- A personal or family history of oral cancers or other head and neck cancers
- Abnormal bumps, sores, or textures inside your mouth
Using substances like alcohol or tobacco products will increase the risk of developing mouth cancer.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
An oral cancer screening at Dental Care of Rosewood is a quick, non-invasive exam that typically takes 5 to 10 minutes. The screening can be performed during a regular dental checkup, so no separate appointment is needed in most cases.
During the screening, the dentist visually examines the inside of your mouth, including the tongue, cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth, and throat. The dentist also gently feels the tissues for any lumps, thickening, or textural changes. If any areas of concern are found, the dentist may recommend follow-up testing or a referral to a specialist.
Who Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screenings are recommended for all adults as part of routine dental care. However, certain factors may increase the importance of regular screenings:
- Tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- A previous diagnosis of oral cancer
- A history of significant sun exposure, which increases lip cancer risk
- A personal or family history of head and neck cancers
Even patients without known risk factors can benefit from routine screenings, because early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screening
How often should I get screened for oral cancer?
Most dentists recommend including an oral cancer screening as part of every routine dental exam, which means at least once or twice a year. Patients with higher risk factors may benefit from more frequent evaluations.
Is an oral cancer screening painful?
No. The screening involves visual inspection and gentle palpation of oral tissues. There is no pain, no special preparation, and no recovery time.
What happens if something is found during the screening?
If the dentist identifies an area of concern, further evaluation may include a follow-up appointment, additional imaging, or a biopsy. Finding something during a screening does not necessarily mean cancer is present, but early evaluation is important.
Put Your Health First with Dental Care of Rosewood in Columbia, SC
Whether you discovered a cause for concern or you just want peace of mind, our team at Dental Care of Rosewood can help you determine the steps to take. Call our practice in Columbia, SC, to set up an appointment for your oral cancer screening at 803-680-9080.