Early Oral Cancer Detection is The Best Prevention
Cancer screening plays an important role in the early detection of oral cancer; it allows patients to take action early and increase the chance for a cure. Many oral cancers have a high success rate of being treated, especially when diagnosed and treated early. Therefore, early detection of precancerous tissue can minimize or eliminate the potential effects of oral cancer.
Although dentists are known to care for teeth, gums and smiles, their expertise in oral health is key to our overall well-being. As professionals trained in medicine, dentists recognize the relationship between oral and overall health. Through a dental cancer screening, the dentist examines the mouth for any abnormalities that would be indicative of oral cancer.
The term ‘oral cancer’ includes cancerous growths in the cheeks, lips, mouth, throat, sinus, tongue, or anywhere in the oral cavity. Typically, cells inside the mouth are quite resistant to harm. However, with repeated damage from smoking, alcohol or friction, areas inside the mouth may develop sores and pain where oral cancer can start.
Oral cancers are most commonly found on the floor of the mouth, side of the tongue and lips. However, oral cancer refers to all cancers of the oral cavity, and can be found at any of these locations:
- Lips
- Tongue
- Teeth
- Gums
- Roof of the mouth
- Floor of the mouth
- Area behind wisdom teeth
- Lining inside the lips and cheeks
- Tobacco and alcohol use: Any form of tobacco has carcinogenic substances which significantly increase the risk for oral cancer. Excessive alcohol use can also increase the risk.
- Age: As with most cancers, age is the primary risk factor for oral cancer, as most people diagnosed with a form of oral cancer are over 55.
- Human Papilloma Virus (HPV): This sexually transmitted infection has strong associations with several forms of oral cancer.
- Excessive Sun Exposure (especially of the lips): ultraviolet radiation from the sun can burn the lips and trigger the development of oral cancer.
Other risk factors include:
- Poor Oral Health
- Previous Cancer
- Family History of Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- Diet Low in Vegetables and Fruits
- Weakened Immune System
Without an examination by a dentist, most early signs of oral cancer are difficult to detect. If you notice a mouth sore or anything out of the ordinary that does not go away or heal after a couple of weeks, discuss it with your dentist.
Other symptoms include:
- White or red patches (either on your lips, tongue, inside of your cheeks, on the roof or under your tongue)
- Growth of a lump on the tongue, lips, or the mouth
- Inner cheek lining becomes thicker
- Visible sore on your lip or in your mouth that does not seem to heal
- Loose teeth
- Numbness of the tongue or lips
- Swelling of the jaw
- Voice changes
- Pain swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Dentures that have become poorly fitting
How Can You Prepare for a Cancer Screening Session?
Oral cancer screening is performed during a routine dental exam. No special preparation is required for the screening.
Most patients underestimate the role their dentists play in their overall health and particularly how important a quick dental screening can be for disease prevention.
At Doncaster Dental Studio, we have a world-class professional staff who can make your smile as healthy as it is beautiful! Call us at (905) 597-1518 to book your appointment.
Hear From our Happy Patients
Doncaster Dental Studio is a state-of-the-art dental clinic with incredibly friendly staff and qualified doctors.
I’ve had nothing but great experiences with this office. Doctor Shawn Groyeski is so kind and knowledgable, and I can say the same for hygienist. Facilities are spotless and clean. any procedure I’ve had has been fast and virtually painless. I highly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for top-notch dentists.😊
I would love to share my experience with the peoples who wants to get some advise to go to Doncaster Dental Studio.
Last Friday for the first time appointment I went to Dr Shawn Groyesky for a quick consultation about my front teeth which he Reshape and smooth the fillings on my front teeth to improve the esthetic appearance.
Dr Shawn was very professional & friendly which made me go back to him today and I would highly recommend him to all family & friends who they are looking for a good dentists .
I had a couple of fillings done by dr. Shawn Groyeski last week. I was not too sure first about the procedure but him and his team made me feel extremely comfortable.
Overall I was very happy with the treatment I received. The staff were friendly and professional.
I Would highly recommend this office to anyone looking for an amazing dentist
This is the most comfortable dentist office I have ever been to. The dentists are absolutely fantastic and professional. The dental assistants are just as gifted. The hygienist is always so nice and gentle when cleaning.The front desk staff are friendly and helpful . I feel comfortable enough during covid to continue to get my regular cleaning and check up as the place is super clean .I highly doubt I will ever be as satisfied by another dental office.
Thank you to Dr. Shawn Groyeski and his staff for a good dental experience.
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