When we hear “cancer,” many of us think of breast, lung or colon cancer but oral cancer is one of the most under-recognized yet devastating forms of the disease. Despite being common, it often flies under the radar until it is in an advanced stage. That is why, at MI Dental, we have built oral cancer screening into our comprehensive examination protocol since early detection can literally save lives.
Oral Cancer: What You Need to Know
Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. It is a disease that affects thousands of Canadians each year and unfortunately, it has one of the lowest survival rates. Fewer than half of those diagnosed are ever cured.
A major reason for this sobering statistic? Delayed diagnosis. Oral cancer often starts quietly, a small lesion, a persistent ulcer, a painless lump and by the time it is noticed or becomes symptomatic, it may have already spread.
High profile cases such as actor Michael Douglas‘ battle with HPV related oral cancer have helped bring much needed public attention to the disease. But the responsibility for early detection often lies not with the patient but with the healthcare provider.
How MI Dental Screens for Oral Cancer
We take this responsibility seriously.
At MI Dental, oral cancer screening is a built-in part of the Comprehensive Exam that we perform for all of our new patients and for existing patients every three years. In between, we also perform regular checkups every six months during hygiene appointments which include a briefer version of this screening.
Here is what our Comprehensive Exam includes:
1. Extra-Oral Exam:
- Lymph nodes: We check for any swelling or irregularities in the neck area.
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint): Evaluated for clicking, popping or pain.
- Thyroid gland: Checked for nodules or enlargement.
2. Intra-Oral Soft Tissue Exam:
- Lips and cheeks
- Palate (roof of the mouth)
- Floor of the mouth
- Gums
- Tongue, the most common site for oral cancer.
3. Intra-Oral Hard Tissue Exam:
- This includes a detailed inspection of your teeth and surrounding structures.
These steps are not just routine, they are designed to provide peace of mind and ensure nothing is missed.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Oral cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages because symptoms are often painless. With that being said, you should be alert for the following:
- Persistent ulcers or sores that don’t heal
- White or red patchy areas inside the mouth
- Lumps, thickening or rough spots on the soft tissues
- Numbness, tenderness or pain in the mouth or lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking
- A sensation that something is stuck in your throat
- Hoarseness or chronic sore throat
- Lumps in the neck or under the jaw
Even if you are not experiencing pain, don’t ignore these signs.
Who is at Risk?
- Adults over 40, especially men are statistically at higher risk.
- Tobacco and alcohol use are two of the biggest risk factors.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus) has emerged as a major cause of oral cancers, especially in younger individuals.
- Poor nutrition, particularly low intake of fruits and vegetables can contribute.
- Prolonged sun exposure (linked to lip cancer).
- In some cases, genetics may play a role.
Complications of Treatment
Even for those who survive oral cancer, the after effects of treatment can be life altering. Patients may experience:
- Chronic dry mouth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Accelerated tooth decay
- Facial disfigurement (in cases requiring extensive surgery)
That is why early detection and prevention are everything.
How to Protect Yourself
While not all cases are preventable, there is quite a bit that you can do:
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Eat a healthy, plant-rich diet
- Use lip protection in the sun
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Visit your dentist regularly and don’t skip your exams
Final Thoughts
At MI Dental, our comprehensive approach to patient care goes beyond cavities and cleanings. Our commitment to screening for oral cancer, methodically, routinely and without exception is part of how we protect your overall health.
We understand that no one likes to think about cancer. But we would much rather find it early or better yet, rule it out entirely than come across a late stage diagnosis.
If you have any questions about oral cancer screening or want to book a Comprehensive Exam, please do not hesitate to reach out. Your peace of mind and your health matter.
