Oral Cancer Exam

According to research conducted by the American Cancer Society, oral cancer accounts for over 30,000 diagnosed cases each year, with more than 7,000 resulting in patient deaths. However, the positive news is that oral cancer can be easily detected through annual oral cancer exams and effectively treated when caught in its early stages.

Oral cancer is a pathological process that initially presents an asymptomatic stage, making it difficult to detect without proper examination. This emphasizes the critical importance of oral cancer screenings performed by dentists. Oral cancers can manifest in various histological types, including teratoma, adenocarcinoma, and melanoma. The most common type is malignant squamous cell carcinoma, typically originating in the lip and mouth tissues.

Oral cancers can occur in different areas of the oral cavity and maxillofacial region, such as the lips, mouth, tongue, salivary glands, oropharyngeal region (throat), gums, and face.

There is a strong correlation between oral cancers and modifiable behaviors, with around 75 percent of cases linked to factors like smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Dentists can provide literature and education on making lifestyle changes and smoking cessation to help reduce the risk of oral cancer.

Early diagnosis significantly improves the effectiveness of treatment for oral cancer. Any noticeable abnormalities in the tongue, gums, mouth, or surrounding areas should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional. During an oral cancer exam, the dentist and dental hygienist will carefully examine the maxillofacial and oral regions for any signs of pathological changes.

The following signs will be investigated during a routine oral cancer exam:

Red patches and sores: Red patches on the floor of the mouth, the front and sides of the tongue, and slow-healing sores that bleed easily can indicate pathological changes.

Leukoplakia: This hardened white or gray lesion, slightly raised, can appear anywhere inside the mouth. It may be cancerous or have the potential to develop into cancer if left untreated.

Lumps: Soreness, lumps, or tissue thickening in the throat or mouth may indicate pathological problems.

The oral cancer examination is a painless process. The dentist will visually inspect the oral cavity and may use lasers to highlight any abnormal signs or lesions not visible to the naked eye.

If abnormalities, lesions, leukoplakia, or lumps are detected, the dentist will proceed with a diagnostic impression and treatment plan. If the initial treatment plan proves ineffective, a biopsy of the area will be performed to determine the precise stage and grade of the oral lesion.

Once the basement membrane of the epithelium is compromised, oral cancer is considered present. Malignant types of cancer can spread to other areas in the oral and maxillofacial regions, posing additional secondary threats. Treatment methods vary depending on the specific diagnosis and may involve excision, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

While regular bi-annual check-ups include a thorough examination for changes and lesions in the mouth, it is recommended to undergo a dedicated comprehensive oral cancer screening at least once a year. This proactive approach can greatly contribute to the early detection and successful treatment of oral cancer