Oral Cancer Screenings

What is Oral Cancer Screening?

It refers to the visual and physical examination of the oral cavity and connected tissues performed by a dentist or doctor. The purpose of oral cancer screening is to identify mouth cancer while it is still in the early stages when there is a greater chance for a cure. It can be recommended by a doctor or dentist in response to one’s lifestyle choices. The patient may request it as a precautionary measure.

Signs that you need Oral Cancer Screening

The following are several signs that may signify the need for a patient to undergo oral cancer screening:

Difficult or painful swallowing
A white or reddish patch on the inside of your mouth
A growth or lump inside your mouth
A lip or mouth sore that does not heal
Mouth pain
Loose teeth

Key benefits of Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer screening is inexpensive. It can be included as part of your regular dental examination at no extra cost.
The screening can be lifesaving. If oral cancer is detected during its early stages of development, it can be treated much more easily, and this greatly a patient’s chances of survival. Early detection also means that the treatment will be less costly than it would have been if cancer had been discovered when it was in advanced stages.
It is a quick and easy procedure. It can be performed during one of your dental appointments. Your dentist will simply make a check-up on your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth. Sometimes he or she may also examine the throat.

What to eat Before and After the Procedure

You should eat foods that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. It will help boost your immune system and protect you against health issues such as oral cancer. Such foods include squash, brussels sprouts, and carrots.

Durability of Oral Cancer Screening

The frequency at which oral cancer screening should be done varies. Sometimes it can be recommended by your dentist if there is a need for it to be done in his professional opinion. It can also be done upon request by the patient.

After Procedure Care

It is vital to maintain your regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day, flossing once a day, and mouth washing. It is also advisable to avoid alcohol and smoking. Such practices may be gradually irritating your oral cavity in a manner that can cause oral cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does screening hurt?

No—it’s quick and comfortable.

If you find something, does that mean cancer?

Not necessarily. Many spots are harmless. If we’re unsure, we’ll monitor or refer for a biopsy to be certain.

Can kids and teens be screened?

Yes. We include a visual screening in routine exams for all ages.

Do I need special tests?

Most screenings are visual and manual. If an area looks suspicious, we’ll discuss the best next step.

Schedule your screening

Due for a checkup or noticed a spot that isn’t healing? Call our Boston team. Call 857-888-8000 to schedule now Other locations: Beverly 978-288-1000 • Lowell 978-999-9000 • Waltham 781-666-6000 • Fairhaven 508-967-1000