Oral cancer screening is important, especially for patients with certain risk factors, because early detection greatly increases the likelihood of recovery and cure of oral cancer. The tests are very simple and incorporated into your regular checkup, so patients do not need to feel stress about their routine screening. Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates, DDS offer oral cancer screening for our Cincinnati patients.
What is Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is simply a checkup to ensure that you show no signs of cancer in your mouth. Oral cancer screenings are relatively common, and patients do not need to be concerned if their dentist performs these tests.
How is Oral Cancer Screening Performed?
Oral cancer screening is performed as part of your routine dental checkup, and is a relatively simple procedure. Your dentist will examine your mouth, looking for red or white patches or sores, which can indicate oral cancer. The dentist will then also feel the tissues of your mouth, and possibly your neck and throat as well to ensure there are no lumps or other abnormal textures. Additional tests may include rinsing your mouth with a blue dye, which is absorbed by abnormal cells, making them visible, or shining a cancer screening light in your mouth, which causes abnormal tissue to appear white.
Do I Need to be Screened for Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer screening is especially important for patients who have certain risk factors for oral cancer. These include tobacco use (including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewing tobacco), a previous oral cancer diagnosis or family history, heavy alcohol use, or significant sun exposure, which can increase your risk of lip cancer.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are concerned about oral cancer or have any increased risk factors, be sure to inform your dentist at your next checkup with Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates, DDS. To schedule your appointment, call our Cincinnati office at (513) 631-6600 or fill out our online form.
