Oral Cancer Screening in Jacksonville, Texas

Would you take a simple test that could alert you to the possibility of oral cancer early on? The good news is that such a test exists, and it could save your life. Early detection of oral cancer has been shown to increase survival rates to 80% or higher. And the best part? An oral cancer screening is a routine part of your dental checkup at Cherokee Dental Professionals, something that is necessary to maintain your overall health.

An oral cancer screening is quick, painless, and designed to identify small changes in the tissues of your mouth, lips, and tongue that could indicate the early stages of cancer. The screening primarily involves a visual examination, coupled with a tactile (touch) assessment. If anything unusual is detected, a small tissue sample may be taken for further lab analysis.

Who is at Risk for Oral Cancer?

The risk of developing oral cancer might surprise you. While it was once thought to primarily affect older adults, today younger individuals are the fastest-growing group of oral cancer patients. This shift is largely attributed to the spread of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV16), which is transmitted sexually.

The traditional risk factors still apply: If you’re over 40, a moderate-to-heavy drinker, or a long-time tobacco user, your chances of developing oral cancer are higher. Chronic sun exposure, which is known to cause skin cancer, also increases the risk of cancer on the lips. Genetics can also play a major role in determining who develops oral cancer.

How Oral Cancer is Detected at Cherokee Dental Professionals

Detecting Oral Cancer By Oral Cancer Screening In Jacksonville, Tx

As part of your routine dental checkup, we include an oral cancer screening to ensure your health is our top priority. During the screening, your dentist will visually examine your lips, tongue, and mouth for any red or white patches or unusual sores. They will also gently press on areas inside your mouth to detect lumps or swelling, and may pull your tongue aside for a more thorough view. In some cases, special lighting, dyes, or other tools may be used to better examine any suspicious areas. If needed, a biopsy can be performed to collect a tissue sample for testing.

If you notice sores, color changes, or unusual tissue in your mouth, lips, or tongue, it could be a sign of oral cancer. While most changes are harmless, any that persist for 2-3 weeks should be examined by a dentist. Keep in mind that a biopsy is the only way to accurately diagnose oral cancer, and early detection through regular screenings is one of the best defenses against the disease.

Stay proactive with regular oral cancer screenings during your dental checkups. Early diagnosis could make all the difference in your recovery.