Cancer that occurs in any part of the oral cavity is considered oral cancer. We divide oral cancer into two categories; those occurring in the oral cavity and those in the oropharynx (tonsils, tongue base, soft palate, and pharyngeal walls).
The significant genes involved in oral cancer are proto-oncogene and tumor suppressor genes.
Oral cancer screenings are exams performed by a doctor to look for signs and symptoms of cancer in the mouth. A clinical examination of the oral cavity is the primary screening test for oral cancer.
Many factors increase the risk of oral cancer; some of them include the following:
Early signs of oral cancer include:
Oral cancer screenings are typically performed during a routine dental check-up. During an oral cancer screening exam, the dentist looks over the inside of your mouth to check for white or red patches. Some dentists will use additional tests during the screening.
They may involve oral cancer screening dye and oral cancer screening light.
At the same time, the present oral cancer screening techniques have some limitations too. It can't detect all mouth cancers - it is difficult to detect abnormal cells just by looking at your mouth, so there's a chance for small cancer or precancerous lesions to go undetected.
Also, many people with signs of oral cancer can feel sores in their mouths. However, an oral exam can't identify which sores are cancerous and which are not. The only way to identify whether or not they are cancerous is by removing some abnormal cells and testing them for a biopsy.
Oral cancer is a scary, painful, and dangerous disease that can take over your smile, affect your entire health, and can even result in death if left untreated. Inspire Smiles Dental offers oral cancer screening to help find cancer in the oral cavity at an early stage, thus saving lives.
Call us at 925.833.9500 or schedule an appointment online to know more about Oral Cancer Screening.
Invisalign is a system of customized clear aligners that are made to fit your unique smile. Each aligner …
Brushing and flossing are habits that everyone, including children, should develop from an early age. However, it’s easy …
Brushing teeth twice a day might seem like a chore to your kids. So, here are a few …
Oral health is essential for our overall health and well-being. Maintaining good oral health can prevent problems such …
Good oral hygiene habits are an essential part of maintaining your dental health. In addition to brushing and …