Oral Cancer Screening

Durango, CO

In short, anyone can have a form of oral cancer. However, individual lifestyle choices can also significantly impact and increase the risk of oral cancer. When a dentist checks a patient for oral cancer, they are looking at the entire oral cavity.

The oral cavity includes a person's lips, cheek lining, gums, the front of the tongue, beneath the tongue, and the roof of the mouth. Also included is the part of the mouth that begins at the roof of someone’s mouth and reaches to the back of the throat, as well as the back part of the tongue.

Signs and symptoms of oral cancer

On any of the surfaces of the oral cavity, if there is a sore or irritation that does not seem to go away, then this is an indication that oral cancer may be forming. If there are any red or white patches on these areas of the mouth and oral cavity then this also might be a sign of oral cancer beginning to form. 

If someone is experiencing any pain, tenderness or numbness on or around the mouth or lips, this is another common symptom of the formation of oral cancer along with a lump or thickening of certain areas in the mouth.

If someone is experiencing any difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking when moving their tongue or their jaw this can be an indicator of oral cancer. Lastly, another symptom is if someone notices a sudden change in the way their teeth seem to fit together when closing their mouth.

Can a dentist detect oral cancer?

The most common question that we receive at our dental office from patients that are concerned about oral cancer is if dentists are the best type of doctor to detect oral cancer. In short, the answer is yes. Because dentists have the most knowledge of the oral cavity, they are equipped and trained to see the signs and symptoms of oral cancer.

The best time that this happens is during a person's bi-annual cleaning and check-up. During this time a dentist will always ask about any changes in your medical history and if you happen to have noticed any unusual symptoms of oral cancer. After this quick follow-up, the dentist will begin their exam of a person’s oral cavity to detect any possible trouble spots. This will include your lips, tongue, cheeks, and roof of the mouth.