Who Should Get Oral Cancer Screenings?
Everyone should consider getting regular oral cancer screenings, but it’s especially important for those who may be at higher risk. If you fall into the following categories, we recommend regular screenings as part of your ongoing dental care. You may have an increased risk of developing oral cancer if you:
- Smoke or chew tobacco
- Consume alcohol heavily
- Are over the age of 40
- Have a family history of oral cancer
- Have a history of oral lesions or persistent mouth sores
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening in Gilbert
At Greenfield Family Dentistry, we integrate oral cancer screenings into your regular dental checkup to make it quick and easy. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during your visit:
- Initial Examination: Dr. Daniel Masters begins by discussing your medical history, lifestyle factors, and any symptoms you may have noticed. He then visually inspects the inside of your mouth, focusing on your lips, tongue, cheeks, and gums. During this process, the dentist looks for abnormalities such as sores, red or white patches, or any unusual signs indicating a problem.
- Palpation: Next, Dr. Masters gently feels the lymph nodes in your neck, jawline, and skull base. He’s checking for any swelling or lumps that could point to oral cancer. If he detects any suspicious areas, he may recommend additional testing or a referral to a specialist for further evaluation.
- Examination of the Throat: Oral cancer can also develop in the throat area. Dr. Masters will examine the back of your throat for any unusual signs and may ask you to stick out your tongue or tilt your head back to get a better view.
- Additional Tests: If Dr. Masters finds any abnormalities during the exam, he may suggest additional tests like a biopsy or imaging to assess the area further. These tests help determine whether the abnormalities are cancerous and guide the next steps for treatment.
Benefits of Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings offer several important benefits:
- Early Detection: Regular screenings help us catch oral cancer early when it’s most treatable. The survival rate for early-stage oral cancer is significantly higher compared to later-stage detection.
- Preventive Care: Screening for oral cancer is key to preventive care. By detecting potential issues early, Dr. Masters can intervene before they develop into serious conditions.
- Peace of Mind: A screening can offer reassurance if you’re concerned about your oral health. If everything looks normal, you can continue with confidence. If we find issues, we can take quick action to address them.
How Often Should You Have an Oral Cancer Screening?
Dr. Daniel Masters recommends having an oral cancer screening at least once a year as part of your routine dental checkup. If you’re at higher risk, he may suggest more frequent screenings. Regular screenings give us the best chance to catch potential issues early and improve the chances of successful treatment.
