Why Is Oral Cancer the Important for Adults?

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, yet it is often overlooked. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, over 48 000 people are diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer annually. While the survival rate for oral cancer is high when caught early, only about 57% of cases are caught in the early stages. This is why getting oral cancer screening is so important.

What is Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer screening looks for signs of mouth cancer, and a dentist does it. Oral cancer affects the mouth’s tissues, including the lips, tongue, and throat. It is crucial to screen for oral cancer because it can be challenging to detect in its early stages.

There are two main ways to screen for oral cancer: visual examination and physical. The visual examination involves looking at the mouth for signs of cancer, such as red or white patches, ulcers, or lumps. Physical consists of feeling the mouth for any abnormal lumps or growths.

However, with modern dental technology, there is a VELscope system today. VELscope oral cancer screening is a system that uses a handheld scope to illuminate oral tissues using a blue light. This fluorescent helps the dentist to visualize abnormal areas that may not be detected with the traditional oral examination. The system does not use dyes or prolonged testing procedures; it takes two minutes.

The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening For Adults

Getting oral cancer screening is important because it offers early detection. Over the past decades, survival rates for oral cancer have not improved much. This is partly due to poor detection rates, but early detection can improve these numbers and reduce morbidity and mortality.

Oral cancer screening is fast and often painless and can be done by your dentist or hygienist. They will look for signs of cancer, such as red or white patches, sores, or lumps. The procedure is painless and is now included in comprehensive exams. The screening process takes just a few minutes, but it could save a person’s life.

Your dentist in Manalapan Township, NJ, near you, may refer you to get a more thorough examination like a biopsy if they notice abnormal lesions and immobile tumors. A biopsy is a diagnostic test commonly performed by a surgeon, cardiologist, or interventional radiologist. The process of biopsy involves the collection of sample cells or tissues. It is used to determine whether a particular disease exists and the extent of its impact on the body.

What are The Oral Cancer Treatment Options?

There are several treatment options for oral cancer, depending on the cancer stage and the patient’s overall health.
Oral surgery is often the first course of treatment, followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be used. Oral cancer screening near you is important for the early detection of the disease.

Some patients may also receive targeted therapy or immunotherapy. In addition to treatment, regular oral cancer screenings are important for adults, as they can help catch the disease in its early stages.

How to Reduce Oral Cancer Risk?

Although oral cancer is relatively rare, it is important to be aware of the risks and to take steps to reduce your risk.

The primary way is to get regular oral cancer screenings. These screenings can help catch oral cancer early when it is most treatable.

Additionally, make lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, chewing tobacco, and drinking alcohol in moderation. Furthermore, wear sunscreen, especially around the lip area when going under direct sunlight. Knowing the risks of mouth cancer and taking steps to reduce them is crucial, and you can help keep yourself healthy and cancer-free. But, take note that you may still develop oral cancer without the risk factors.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Union Hill Dental for more information about oral cancer screening and what you can expect during and after the procedure.