Oral Cancer Screening
Protecting Your Smile, Health
& Overall Wellbeing
One person dies every hour in the US from oral cancer, and only 57% of those diagnosed will live more than five years beyond their initial diagnosis.
Oral cancer and cancers that impact other parts of the face, throat, head, and neck are serious due to the often aggressive nature of these cancers, they have an unfortunately high mortality rate.
Even though the statistics are still pretty alarming, the numbers have actually improved in the last decade. Prior research indicated that between 45 and 50% of diagnosed patients would live beyond the five year mark. The reason for the gradual improvement in numbers may be due in part to the increasing frequency of preventive screenings. This is one of the reasons why the Shipley’s Dental Care dentists are so dedicated to offering oral cancer screenings for our Millersville, MD dental patients. Keep reading to learn a little more about what you can expect from oral cancer screenings with our team. If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dental care team.
Warning Signs & Symptoms
of Oral Cancer
Let us know if you notice any of these warning signs of oral cancer!
Many forms of oral cancer and cancers that affect the head, neck, and face can be very aggressive, and with the proximity to your brain and nervous system, these forms of cancer can quickly interrupt healthy function. For these reasons, early diagnosis and intervention are essential. To help your dentist or physician make an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible, you should let us know if you notice any of these warning signs of oral cancer:
- Red, white, or otherwise discolored soft tissue in the mouth
- Lump or sore in the mouth
- Lumps on other parts of the head, face, or neck
- Changes in color or texture of soft tissue
- Difficulty chewing and swallowing
- Sore throat or chronic hoarse voice
- Sores in the mouth that don’t heal properly
- Unexplained pain or tenderness in the mouth, lips, or face
- Difficulty moving tongue
Oral Cancer Screening FAQ’s
What does my dentist look for during an oral cancer screening?
During your oral cancer screening, the dentist will be looking for those common symptoms of oral cancer outlined above. If we notice discoloration, sores, and other issues in the soft tissue of your mouth, we may ask you to tell us a little more about your habits, health history, and family health history to ensure we fully understand your risk for oral cancer. We will also look for lumps and bumps on the face, throat, head, and neck that can be indicative of other forms of oropharyngeal cancer.
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
When you visit for a six month dental checkup, we’ll complete your oral cancer screening as part of your preventive visit. The process itself is simple and comfortable. We will carefully examine every surface of your mouth looking for lumps, bumps, sores, changes in texture, and other warning signs. We will feel your neck for lumps. It’s likely we’ll also ask you some questions to determine your risk for oral cancer and make sure that any changes to your oral health are detected in the earliest stages. If you smoke or use tobacco products, drink excessively, have been diagnosed with HPV, or notice any of the warning signs of oral cancer listed above, make sure to let your dentist or a team member know you’re concerned about oral cancer.
If oral cancer is present, how is it treated?
How your oral cancer is treated is largely based on how much it has spread. It’s should come as no surprise that the early it is detected, the greater your chances of survival. Typically, surgical procedures will be performed if cancer has not spread, but it can also be used if the cancer is advanced but is often part of a more comprehensive plan that includes chemotherapy or radiation.
If surgery is necessary, doctors will likely use specialized techniques to keep from affecting your oral function that allows for easier eating and swallowing. Some of the most common surgeries include:
- Mandibulectomy, which requires removing part of the lower jawbone.
- Maxillectomy, which involves removing some or all of the hard palate.
- Neck dissection, which calls for the removal of lymph nodes on one side of the neck.
There are other surgical options depending on the location of the cancer and its severity.
What kind of side effects are expected with oral cancer treatment?
It is not uncommon for patients with oral cancer to experience some level of fatigue, nausea, weight loss, dry mouth, and constipation. It is also likely that when eating, the food consumed will take a bit different.
How long will the side effects from surgery last?
Each patient is different, so timelines will vary. Depending on the severity and spread of cancer, the effects may only last a few weeks or the rest of your life. When talking with your doctor, it’s best to understand the full scope of the treatment so that you can better prepare yourself for life after treatment is complete. Whether you experience side effects for weeks, months, or the remainder of your life, it’s best to understand the potential to better prepare for the future.
What kind of products or solutions are recommended to better manage oral cancer treatment side effects?
From dieticians and naturopathic doctors, patients suffering from oral cancer can expect there to be some level of supportive care immediately following surgery. Good nutrition is essential to ensure that your digestion and body’s ability to function well do not become further hindered. Also, because nausea, heartburn, gas, and diarrhea are common after oral cancer treatment, seeing a naturopathic doctor can help to monitor your supplements and vitamins to ensure that your body is receiving the necessary amount of nutrients. A speech therapist might also be helpful if surgery causes you to develop a dry mouth or loss of voice.
