Catching Oral Cancer Early Is Key
When it comes to your health, early detection can make all the difference. This is especially true for oral cancer, a disease that affects thousands of Americans each year. While the phrase “oral cancer” may sound frightening, the good news is that when caught early, the survival rate is significantly higher. That’s why regular screenings through Palo Alto oral health care providers are so important.
At Beckstead Dental Group, we incorporate oral cancer screenings into our routine dental exams. These screenings take only a few minutes but can be lifesaving. If you haven’t had a dental checkup recently, or if you have risk factors for oral cancer, now is the time to schedule an appointment.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in any part of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, inner lining of the cheeks, and throat. These cancers can interfere with speaking, chewing, and swallowing, and if left untreated, they can spread to other parts of the body.
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 54,000 new cases of oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancers are diagnosed each year in the United States. Men are twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer, and the risk increases with age, particularly after 40.
Why Early Detection Matters
The survival rate for oral cancer is directly tied to how early it is detected. When oral cancer is found in its earliest stages, before it has spread, the five-year survival rate is around 84 percent. However, if the cancer has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, that rate drops significantly.
Unfortunately, many cases of oral cancer are not detected until they have reached an advanced stage. This is often because early oral cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. That’s why regular screenings by a trained dental professional are so crucial. At Beckstead Dental Group, we prioritize your Palo Alto oral health by making oral cancer screenings a standard part of every comprehensive exam.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
While early oral cancer may not always present obvious symptoms, there are warning signs you should never ignore. These include:
- A sore or irritation in the mouth that doesn’t heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
- A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw or tongue
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
- Numbness in the mouth or lips
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist right away. Even if the issue turns out to be benign, it’s always better to be safe and get it checked.
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screenings at Beckstead Dental Group are quick, painless, and non-invasive. During your routine exam, your dentist will visually inspect your mouth, throat, tongue, and lips for any abnormalities. We also feel the tissues in your neck and jaw to check for lumps or irregularities.
In addition to the visual and physical exam, we use advanced technology like the Trimira Identafi system. This device uses different wavelengths of light to help detect abnormal tissue that may not be visible to the naked eye. By highlighting changes in tissue that could indicate early signs of oral cancer, this tool allows us to catch potential problems before they become serious.
If anything unusual is found, we may recommend a biopsy or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation. Early intervention gives you the best chance of successful treatment.
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors increase your risk. These include:
- Tobacco use (cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewing tobacco)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
- Excessive sun exposure (especially for lip cancer)
- A diet low in fruits and vegetables
- A family history of cancer
- Age over 40
If you have one or more of these risk factors, it’s especially important to have regular oral cancer screenings. Even if you don’t have any risk factors, routine screenings are still recommended as part of your overall oral health care.
Prevention and Protection
While not all cases of oral cancer can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Avoid tobacco in all forms
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Use lip balm with SPF to protect against sun damage
- Practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly
- Get the HPV vaccine if recommended by your doctor
By staying proactive about your health and scheduling routine dental exams, you can catch potential issues early and protect yourself against serious illness.
Schedule Your Screening Today
Early detection saves lives. At Beckstead Dental Group, we are committed to helping you maintain excellent oral health through comprehensive care, including thorough oral cancer screenings. Don’t wait until symptoms appear. Make your appointment today and take an active role in protecting your health.
If it has been more than six months since your last dental visit, or if you have concerns about changes in your mouth, contact our office. We’re here to provide the compassionate, expert care you deserve.