Oral Cancer Screening

By Sheri Salartash, DDS, MAGD, NMD, IBDM, FIAOMT, FAAO, FIAO, FICOI

Dynamic Dental Wellness

. https://dynamicdentalwellness.com/

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Oral Cancer Screening

We increase successful treatment options the sooner we locate cancers of the mouth. Dr. Sheri performs these oral cancer screenings with the aid of advanced light spectrum exam systems. One method is done using a fluorescence visualization device which excites tissues of the mouth. By stimulating these areas with collimated violet light, direct visualization results of premalignant dysplasia and cancerous lesions. The exam is painless and takes only a few minutes. Your regular dental check up is an excellent opportunity to have this exam which may result in a longer and healthier life.

Oral cancer includes growths in the mouth and the pharynx (the back of the throat). Oral cancer accounts for roughly two percent of all cancers diagnosed annually in the United States. Approximately 35,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer each year and about 7,600 will die from the disease. On average, 60 percent of those with the disease will survive more than five years. Oral cancer most often occurs in people over the age of 40 and affects more than twice as many men as women.

What Puts Someone At Risk?

Tobacco and alcohol use. Most cases of oral cancer are linked to cigarette smoking, heavy alcohol use, or the use of both tobacco and alcohol together. Using tobacco plus alcohol poses a much greater risk than using either substance alone.

Human papillomavirus (HPV). Infection with the sexually transmitted HPV (specifically the HPV 16 type) has been linked to a subset of oral cancers.

Age. Risk increases with age. Oral cancer most often occurs in people over the age of 40.

Sun Exposure. Cancer of the lip can be caused by sun exposure.

Diet. A diet low in fruits and vegetables may play a role in oral cancer development.

Possible Signs and Symptoms

See a dentist or physician if any of the following symptoms lasts for more than 2 weeks:

• A sore, irritation, lump or thick patch in your mouth, lip, or throat
• A white or red patch in your mouth
• A feeling that something is caught in your throat
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Difficulty moving your jaw or tongue
• Numbness in your tongue or other areas of your mouth
• Swelling of your jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable
• Pain in one ear without hearing loss