Oral cancer screening

During each screening appointment, we carefully ensure that we check for any new lumps, bumps or growths that may not belong there.

Our oral screening specialists previously worked in a hospital where they personally managed and treated patients with growths, cysts, white patches and oral cancer. They were also involved with and performed many of the surgeries, and are ideally placed to spot anything that may need a referral.

Most lesions are nothing to worry about, but we can send you to the right person or hospital if something unusual is noticed.

Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer screenings are integral to ensuring oral health as they allow you to take preventative measures or get treatment to avoid worsening symptoms. These screenings allow your dental health specialist to look for signs and symptoms of oral cancer.

McCrae Dental understands the urgency and significance of detecting oral cancer on time to begin the treatment. It is essential to get regular check-ups done so that immediate treatment and prevention can be followed.

Our staff is always ready to help you understand the process of oral cancer screening and can answer any queries.

What is Oral Cancer, and Who Should Get Screened for It?

Oral cancer develops anywhere in the mouth, including cheeks, tongue, lips, soft and hard palate, floor of mouth, pharynx throat, and sinuses. The risk factors for oral cancer include Human Papillomavirus (HPV), heavy use of alcohol, and tobacco usage.

Oral cancer can be life-threatening if it is not treated early. Therefore, everyone must get regularly screened for oral cancer to ensure early detection, treatment, or prevention.

Oral Cancer Signs & Symptoms

Aside from getting regularly screened for oral cancer, you must be aware of the signs and symptoms. Here are some of the common signs of oral cancer:

• Bleeding sores
• Chewing or swallowing difficulties
• Constant sores that aren’t healing
• Feeling of having something stuck in the throat
• Loose teeth
• Numbness in your head, mouth, or neck
• Pain or stiffness in the jaw
• Prolonged soreness or hoarseness in the throat
• Soft tissue discolouration (red or white)
• Tissue lump on the neck or in the mouth
• Tongue pain

If you or your loved one is experiencing any of these signs, it is important to consult an experienced dentist and get an oral cancer screening.

Understanding Oral Cancer Screening

In an oral cancer screening, the dentist conducts a thorough examination to check for signs and symptoms of cancer in your mouth. Our dental team examines multiple parts of your mouth during the examination, including:

• Cheek lining
• Gums
• Lips
• Roof and floor of the mouth
• Tongue
• Tonsils

What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening

Our experienced dentists will conduct a physical and visual examination to look for mouth sores, white or red patches, and other signs inside your mouth. The dentist will wear gloves to examine your mouth tissues to find signs of lumps and other issues. The team will also examine your neck and throat for lumps.

Some additional tests might be taken during the oral screening if the dentist feels the need. These tests might include:

• Oral cancer screening dye: Your mouth will be rinsed with a blue dye to detect any abnormal cells in your mouth.
• Oral cancer screening light: A light will be shined in your mouth to detect abnormal tissues – the healthy tissues will turn a darker shade, and abnormal tissues will turn whiter.

Consult our Dental Specialists Today!

At McCrae Dental, we take the right measures to enhance the oral health of all our patients. Our team understands how stressful oral cancer screenings can be, and we guide you every step of the way. These screenings ensure that there aren’t any signs of oral cancer, and if there are, we create the best treatment plan.