Everyone knows about the importance of screenings for colon, breast or skin cancer, but an equally serious type of cancer that gets less attention is oral cancer. Many people think they aren’t at risk if they don’t smoke and or drink heavily. Unfortunately, oral cancer has been on the rise in recent years – even in people without these risk factors. That’s why regularly checking for oral cancer in Harrisonburg is so important. Keep reading to find out how often a dentist is checking for oral cancer in Harrisonburg and what they’re looking for!
How Often Are Oral Cancer Screenings Performed?
Oral cancer screenings are recommended twice per year and are done at every checkup. As with all cancers, early detection is key to successful treatment outcomes.
Especially since, as mentioned, oral cancer has been increasingly diagnosed in people who don’t have the usual risk factors of age, tobacco use, or heavy alcohol use.
More studies are being done, but researchers think that HPV (human papillomavirus) is accountable for the increase.
What Does a Dentist Look For?
Both a dentist and hygienist will be looking at all the tissues in the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, throat, palate, and under the tongue.
They’ll be checking for red or white lesions, lumps, bumps, or tissue that has become thick or callous-like. They’ll also be examining the area around the lips, as this is a common spot for a type of skin cancer called melanoma.
If you notice any of the following in between checkups, it’s a good idea to schedule an oral cancer screening in Harrisonburg:
- A chronic sore throat.
- A lump or bump that’s suddenly developed.
- A sore that hasn’t healed on its own within two weeks.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- Stiffness or pain in the jaw.
- An ongoing sensation that something is stuck in the throat.
But remember, while it’s important to be aware and proactive, don’t panic if you find something! There are many harmless, benign conditions such as cold sores or lumps of fatty tissue that people can develop.
Your dentist will either diagnose these changes as something benign or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation if necessary. Either way, being checked by a professional will give you peace of mind.
As with many diseases, screenings and early detection are the best way to improve the prognosis of oral cancer. And these simple, inexpensive and convenient screenings are an easy way to do that!
About the Author
Dr. Monisha Khanna is a dentist in Harrisonburg who knows that checking for oral cancer at checkups save lives. From restorative care to oral cancer screenings, she delivers high-quality, comprehensive care to all her patients and provides thorough exams at every checkup. If you have any other questions about oral cancer, she can be reached via her website or at (540) 432-6616.