What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is an exam performed to detect any signs of oral cancer in a patient’s mouth. Oral cancer can develop anywhere in the mouth, including the gums, throat, cheeks, tongue, lips, salivary glands, and floor of the mouth. Early detection is crucial to prevent the cancer from progressing. At Reflections Dental, we provide oral cancer screenings for patients in Peoria, AZ to offer the best chance for early intervention and recovery. Using advanced FDA-approved technology called VELscope®, Dr. Hildebrandt can identify oral cancer in its earliest stages. Contact our team to learn more about what an oral cancer screening involves.

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How Does an Oral Cancer Exam Work?

During your oral cancer screening at Reflections Dental, Dr. Hildebrandt will carefully examine your mouth for any red or white patches, sores, or unusual growths. Your throat and neck will also be checked. Using the VELscope device, a bright blue light (fluorescence visualization) is shone inside the mouth to reveal abnormal tissue or lesions that are not visible to the naked eye. Before this technology, oral cancer was often missed because it looks similar to harmless lesions. VELscope helps detect changes beneath the surface for early diagnosis.

We perform this screening as a routine part of your oral exam to monitor for any signs of oral cancer.

What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?

Symptoms of oral cancer can vary, but common signs include:

  • Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing, chewing, moving the tongue or jaw, or speaking
  • Sores on the face, inside the mouth, or neck that bleed easily and don’t heal within two weeks
  • Lumps, bumps, red patches, crusty areas, rough spots, or eroded tissue on the gums, lips, or inside the mouth
  • Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth, face, or neck without an obvious cause
  • White or red patches inside the mouth

If you notice any of these symptoms or other unusual, persistent changes, seek professional evaluation promptly.

What Are the Benefits of Oral Cancer Exams?

Oral cancer screenings play a vital role in maintaining your health by identifying potential issues early. Benefits of screenings at Reflections Dental include:

  • Providing peace of mind by addressing concerns about your oral health
  • Reducing long-term healthcare costs through early detection
  • Educating you on habits that protect and improve your dental health
  • Identifying risk factors and offering preventive advice
  • Allowing quicker diagnosis and timely treatment of oral cancer
  • Increasing the chances of successful therapy and recovery

Am I a Candidate for Oral Cancer Screenings?

Individuals aged 18 and older should have an oral cancer screening at least once a year. Those who regularly use tobacco products, have a family history of oral cancer, or notice any unusual lesions in their mouth should prioritize routine oral cancer exams.

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Oral Cancer Exam FAQ

What can cause oral cancer?

Oral cancer is often caused by tobacco use, HPV (human papillomavirus) infection, exposure to UV rays, age, and alcohol consumption. It is more common in people over 40 and occurs more frequently in males than females.

Why is early detection of oral cancer crucial?

Early detection is essential for better treatment outcomes and reducing the risk of cancer progression. Routine dental exams can help identify suspicious lesions or growths early, improving survival rates and lowering the risk of deformity or death. If you notice any unusual patches or growths on your lips or in your mouth, schedule an exam at Reflections Dental promptly.

Do dentists treat oral cancer?

Dr. Hildebrandt can identify suspicious areas and collect tissue samples for laboratory analysis. If oral cancer is diagnosed, he collaborates with oncologists and oral surgeons to develop the best treatment plan, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, depending on the cancer’s stage and size.