What is Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is an examination to look for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. The goal of oral cancer screening is to identify mouth cancer early, when there is a greater chance for a cure. An oral cancer screening is typically performed mouth during a routine dental visit to screen for oral cancer. During the exam, your dentist will check your neck and oral tissues for lumps, red or white patches or recurring sore areas.
Factors which increase oral cancer risks
Smoking, especially combined with heavy alcohol consumption (30 drinks a week or more), is the primary risk factor for oral cancer. In fact, this combination is estimated to be the most likely trigger in about 75 percent of oral cancers diagnosed in this country. Other lifestyle and environmental factors also may increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Ask the dentists at Linden Dental Associates whether oral cancer screening is appropriate for you.