Oral Cancer Screenings in Seattle, WA

The Importance of Yearly Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer is a silent and subtle disease that can creep up on anyone, making early detection crucial for increasing survival rates. Oral cancer screenings aim to identify cancer or precancerous conditions in their infancy, enhancing survival rates and minimizing morbidity.

These screenings are performed at your routine dental visits. If you’re overdue for a dental appointment, contact our dentist in Seattle by calling us at (206) 682-3888 today!

What Are Oral Cancer Screenings?

Oral cancer screenings are medical examinations and assessments conducted by healthcare professionals to detect signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions in a person’s mouth. These screenings are an essential part of preventive healthcare, as early detection of oral cancer can significantly improve the patient’s chances of successful treatment and survival.

Benefits of Yearly Oral Cancer Screenings

Receiving an oral cancer screening can provide you with the following benefits:

• Early Detection: One of the primary benefits of oral cancer screenings is the early detection of oral cancer and precancerous conditions. Detecting oral cancer in its early stages significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and a more favorable prognosis.
• Improved Survival Rates: Treatment of oral cancer early on can lead to higher survival rates.
• Reduced Treatment Intensity: When oral cancer is detected early, the treatment required may be less invasive and less aggressive. This can result in a lower risk of complications and a better overall quality of life during and after treatment.
• Lower Healthcare Costs: Treating oral cancer in its early stages is generally less costly than treating advanced-stage cancer.
• Minimal Disruption to Daily Life: Early-stage oral cancer treatment is typically less disruptive to a person’s daily life compared to advanced-stage treatment. This includes shorter hospital stays, fewer side effects, and a quicker return to normal activities.
• Preservation of Oral Function: Early detection and treatment can often preserve a person’s ability to speak, eat, and maintain good oral health. Advanced-stage oral cancer may require more extensive surgery, leading to functional impairments.
• Emotional Well-being: Detecting and treating oral cancer early can reduce the emotional and psychological stress that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis. It provides individuals with a better sense of control over their health and future.
• Increased Awareness: Routine oral cancer screenings can raise awareness about the risk factors associated with oral cancer, such as tobacco and alcohol use. This can encourage individuals to make lifestyle changes to reduce their risk.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

If you’ve noticed any of the following symptoms, contact your healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Persistent Mouth Sores

One of the most noticeable signs of oral cancer is the presence of persistent sores or ulcers in the mouth that don’t heal within two weeks. These sores can be painful and may bleed.

Red or White Patches

Red or white patches in the mouth, known as leukoplakia (white patches) or erythroplakia (red patches), can be indicative of oral cancer. These patches may be flat or slightly raised and are typically found on the tongue, the floor of the mouth, or the inner cheeks.

Unexplained Bleeding

If you experience unexplained bleeding in your mouth, especially without an obvious cause such as an injury or dental procedure, it could be a sign of oral cancer.

Pain or Difficulty Swallowing

Persistent pain or discomfort while swallowing, known as dysphagia, is a symptom that may be associated with oral cancer. This can be due to tumors obstructing the throat or affecting the normal function of the mouth and throat.

Chronic Sore Throat or Hoarseness

A persistent sore throat or hoarseness that lasts for an extended period without an apparent cause could be indicative of oral cancer. This is particularly true if it’s not associated with a respiratory infection.

Numbness or Tingling

Numbness or tingling in the mouth or on the lips can be a sign of nerve involvement due to oral cancer. This occurs when the cancer affects nerves in the oral cavity.

Changes in Speech

Oral cancer can cause changes in speech patterns. This may be due to the presence of tumors affecting the tongue, palate, or other parts of the oral cavity.

Swelling or Lumps

Unexplained lumps, bumps, or swelling in the mouth, throat, or neck can be indicative of oral cancer. These may or may not be painful and are often discovered during routine self-examinations or dental check-ups.

Loose Teeth or Poorly Fitting Dentures

Oral cancer can lead to changes in the alignment of teeth or cause ill-fitting dentures due to changes in the structure of the jaw or gum tissue.

Weight Loss and Fatigue

As with many types of cancer, oral cancer can lead to unintended weight loss and a general feeling of fatigue or weakness. This is often a result of the body’s efforts to combat the disease.

Types of Oral Cancers

Yes, there are several different types of oral cancers, each of which can occur in different areas of the mouth and throat. Some of the primary types of oral cancers include:

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This is the most common type of oral cancer and typically originates in the squamous cells that line the mouth, throat, and lips. Squamous cell carcinoma can occur on the tongue, gums, lips, the floor of the mouth, and the palate.
• Verrucous Carcinoma: This is a less aggressive type of oral cancer that usually appears as a slow-growing, warty, or cauliflower-like growth. It often affects the oral mucosa, particularly the buccal mucosa (inner lining of the cheeks) and the gums.
• Salivary Gland Cancer: These cancers develop in the salivary glands, which are located in and around the mouth. There are various types of salivary gland cancers, including mucoepidermoid carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, and acinic cell carcinoma.
• Lymphoma: Lymphomas are cancers that affect the lymphatic system, but they can sometimes involve the tonsils or other lymphoid tissues in the mouth or throat.
• Minor Salivary Gland Cancer: These cancers develop in the small salivary glands throughout the mouth, including the palate, lips, and tongue.
• Adenocarcinoma: This type of cancer originates in the glandular cells of the mouth and throat and can occur in the major or minor salivary glands.
• Sarcoma: Sarcomas are rare, but develop in the connective tissues of the mouth, such as muscles, nerves, and blood vessels.
• Melanoma: Melanoma can occur in the oral cavity, including the tongue and palate. It’s a type of cancer that begins in melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment.

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

Here’s how an oral cancer screening works:

1. Visual Examination: The primary component of oral cancer screening tests is a visual inspection of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and the roof and floor of the mouth. We’ll look for any abnormalities, such as lumps, sores, red or white patches, or other unusual changes in the oral tissues.
2. Palpation: In addition to a visual examination, we may gently feel (palpate) the neck and throat to check for any enlarged lymph nodes or masses, which can be a sign of advanced oral cancer.
3. Dental History: We may ask about your dental and medical history, as certain risk factors like tobacco and alcohol use, as well as human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, can increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
4. Risk Assessment: Based on the visual examination and medical history, we may assess the individual’s risk for developing oral cancer. High-risk individuals may require more frequent screenings.
5. Biopsy: If any suspicious lesions or abnormalities are found during the oral cancer screening, a biopsy may be recommended. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of the abnormal tissue for laboratory analysis to confirm whether cancerous cells are present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today!

If you’re experiencing any signs of oral cancer or if you’re overdue to receive a routine dental checkup, schedule an appointment today with our Seattle dentist by giving us a call at (206) 682-3888. Your oral health is our top priority.