Oral Cancer Screening

Oral or mouth cancer can affect several areas, including the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, roof, or floor of the mouth. You may not notice any early symptoms of oral or mouth cancer. However, in some cases, there may be symptoms such as:

• A sore in the mouth or on the lips that do not heal.
• Pain anywhere in the mouth.
• A lump in the mouth.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Discoloration around the mouth, such as a white or reddish patch.

An oral cancer screening at dentist visits in Tampa, Odessa, or Lutz can determine if these or other symptoms are caused by cancer. If your dentist or doctor finds an abnormality, they can perform a biopsy to determine if cancer is present.

The causes of oral cancer are not always known. However, the condition most commonly affects people who have certain risk factors. Some of these factors, such as age (over 60 are most likely to develop oral cancer) and family history, can’t be controlled. Others, however, are linked to lifestyle.

• Quit using tobacco products. Smoking or chewing tobacco greatly increases your risk of oral cancer.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
• Always use sunblock around your lips when exposed to the sun.
• Get regular oral cancer screenings.

While your dentist can perform an oral cavity cancer screening, treatment must be performed by a specialist such as an ENT surgeon. Depending on the extent of cancer, treatment may involve radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or surgery.