Oral Cancer: Early Detection and Prevention at Frank C. Raymer, DDS

According to research conducted by the American Cancer Society, over 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year, with more than 7,000 of these cases resulting in death. The good news is that oral cancer can be diagnosed early with an annual oral cancer exam and treated effectively if caught in its earliest stages.

Oral cancer is a pathologic condition that begins with an asymptomatic stage, during which typical cancer signs may not be immediately visible. This makes oral cancer examinations performed by your dentist critically important. Oral cancers can be of various histologic types, including teratoma, adenocarcinoma, and melanoma. The most common type of oral cancer is malignant squamous cell carcinoma, which usually originates in lip and mouth tissues.
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Common Areas Affected by Oral Cancer

Oral cancers can occur in various areas of the oral cavity and maxillofacial region, including:

  • Lips
  • Mouth
  • Tongue
  • Salivary glands
  • Oropharyngeal region (throat)
  • Gums
  • Face

Reasons for Oral Cancer Examinations

Around 75 percent of oral cancers are linked to modifiable behaviors such as smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Your dentist can provide literature and education on making lifestyle changes, including smoking cessation.

When diagnosed in its earliest stages, oral cancer treatment is generally very effective. Any noticeable abnormalities in the tongue, gums, mouth, or surrounding areas should be evaluated by a health professional as soon as possible. During your oral cancer exam, your dentist and dental hygienist will carefully scrutinize the maxillofacial and oral regions for signs of pathologic changes.

Signs to Look for During an Oral Cancer Exam

Your dentist will investigate the following signs 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, white or pink patches that fail to heal, and slow-healing sores that bleed easily can indicate cancerous changes.
  • Leukoplakia: A hardened, white or gray, slightly raised lesion that may appear anywhere inside the mouth. Leukoplakia can be cancerous or may become cancerous if not treated.
  • Lumps: Soreness, lumps, or general thickening of tissue in the throat or mouth may signal pathological problems.

Oral Cancer Exams, Diagnosis, and Treatment

The oral cancer exam is a completely painless process. During the visual examination, your dentist will look for abnormalities and feel your face, glands, and neck for unusual bumps. Lasers, which can highlight pathologic changes, are also used to detect abnormalities that are invisible to the naked eye.

If any abnormalities, lesions, leukoplakia, or lumps are found, your dentist will develop a diagnostic impression and treatment plan. If the initial treatment plan is ineffective, a biopsy may be performed. The biopsy includes a clinical evaluation to identify the precise stage and grade of the oral lesion.

Oral cancer is considered present when the basement membrane of the epithelium is broken. Malignant cancers can spread to other areas of the oral and maxillofacial regions, posing additional secondary risks. Treatment methods vary according to the diagnosis but may include excision, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Regular Screenings and Check-ups

While bi-annual check-ups include a thorough examination of your mouth, a dedicated, comprehensive oral cancer screening should be performed at least once a year. These screenings are crucial for detecting any changes or lesions early.

If you have any questions or concerns about oral cancer, please contact us today. Your health and safety are our top priority, and we are here to help you maintain optimal oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that can develop in the lips, mouth, tongue, gums, or other areas of the oral cavity. It typically begins as an asymptomatic condition, which is why routine oral cancer exams by your dentist are crucial for early detection.

What are the most common areas affected by oral cancer?

Oral cancer can affect various areas of the mouth and maxillofacial region, including:

Lips
Mouth
Tongue
Salivary glands
Oropharyngeal region (throat)
Gums
Face

How can oral cancer be detected early?

Oral cancer can be detected early through routine oral cancer exams performed by your dentist. These exams look for abnormal signs such as red patches, white lesions, sores that don’t heal, lumps, or changes in the tissue of the mouth and throat.

What are the risk factors for oral cancer?

The main risk factors for oral cancer include smoking, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and a family history of cancer. It’s important to make lifestyle changes and avoid these risk factors to reduce your chances of developing oral cancer.

What should I expect during an oral cancer exam?

An oral cancer exam is painless and involves your dentist examining your mouth, lips, gums, and throat for any abnormalities. The dentist may also feel your neck and glands for unusual lumps. Special tools like lasers may be used to detect any hidden issues.

What signs should I look for that could indicate oral cancer?

You should be vigilant for the following signs:

Red patches or sores that don’t heal
Leukoplakia (white or gray lesions inside the mouth)
Lumps or thickening of tissue If you notice any of these, consult your dentist immediately for further evaluation.

How often should I get an oral cancer screening?

While bi-annual check-ups include a general exam, a comprehensive oral cancer screening should be done at least once a year for early detection. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate frequency based on your personal health and risk factors.

What happens if oral cancer is detected during an exam?

If oral cancer is detected, your dentist will recommend further diagnostic tests, including a biopsy, to determine the stage and grade of the lesion. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, depending on the severity.

Are oral cancer exams safe?

Yes, oral cancer exams are completely safe. The process involves visual inspections and gentle palpation of the oral and maxillofacial regions. No harmful radiation is used during the examination.

Does my insurance cover oral cancer exams?

Oral cancer exams are typically included as part of a routine dental exam, so they are often covered by insurance. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.

How effective is treatment if oral cancer is caught early?

When diagnosed in its early stages, oral cancer treatment is generally very effective. Early treatment can lead to a full recovery and help prevent the cancer from spreading to other areas of the body.

Can lifestyle changes reduce the risk of oral cancer?

Yes, avoiding tobacco use, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can significantly lower your risk of developing oral cancer. Your dentist can provide guidance on making healthy lifestyle choices to reduce your cancer risk.

Your Irvine Dentist

Our dental practice is located at 14785 Jeffrey Rd, Unit #100 in Irvine. We are on the first floor in the The Arbor Village Center. Call us today at (949) 551-2606 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Raymer. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please call (949) 551-2606 you will be provided instructions on how to reach Dr. Raymer directly.