Oral cancer often begins as a small red or white lesion and can affect any part of the oral cavity. Patients are often unaware of abnormal cells or suspicious lesions in their mouths. Dentists and dental hygienists have the tools and knowledge to screen for oral cancer and incorporate a cancer screening in their dental exams.
Signs of oral cancer may include red or white patches, lumps, or crusted lesions. Monitoring them for any changes in size or color is important. Tobacco and alcohol consumption increase the risk for oral cancer. Should you notice any changes to your oral mucosa or suspicious lesion, contact your dentist for an evaluation.
There are multiple tools dentists use to detect oral cancer. Brush biopsies and stains evaluate the epithelial cells and determine whether the lesion is normal or abnormal. If the results come back abnormal, the dentist will often refer the patient to an oral surgeon for further evaluations and perhaps a biopsy of the lesion.
It is important to have preventative care and dental check ups to help screen for oral cancer and early detection. For more information about oral cancer including risks, symptoms, and treatment click here.
