Oral Cancer Screening & Prevention
An essential part of our preventive dentistry services at our Waukesha and New Berlin locations is a thorough oral cancer screening. This quick, painless and critically important exam is the leading way to detect oral cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. With early detection, the survival rate for oral cancer can increase by over 90%.
Our experienced dental team is trained to identify even the most subtle signs of oral cancer. During your routine dental check-up, we perform a detailed visual and tactile examination of your entire mouth, including your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, the roof and floor of your mouth and your throat. We also check your head and neck for any abnormalities. This comprehensive oral cancer exam is a simple yet powerful tool in safeguarding your long-term health.
Recognizing the Early Signs: Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Being aware of the potential symptoms of oral cancer empowers you to be proactive about your health. As part of your daily oral hygiene routine, we encourage you to look for any changes in your mouth. Contact our office immediately if you notice any of the following:
- A persistent sore or irritation in your mouth or on your lip that does not heal.
- Chronic mouth pain.
- Red or white patches (leukoplakia or erythroplakia) on your gums, tongue, tonsils or the lining of your mouth.
- Difficulty or pain when chewing, swallowing or speaking.
- A feeling that something is caught in your throat.
- Stiffness or difficulty moving your jaw or tongue.
- Numbness in your tongue or other areas of your mouth.
- A lump or thickening in your cheek or neck.
Causes of Oral Cancer
As with other forms of cancer, the risk of oral cancer increases with several risk factors:
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- A compromised immune system
- A history of cancer
- Presence of the HPV virus
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screenings
We believe that being informed is the first step in taking control of your health. It’s natural to have questions about oral cancer and what a screening involves. To help provide clarity and peace of mind, we've compiled answers to some of the most common questions we hear from our patients in Waukesha and New Berlin.
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick and painless part of your regular dental exam. Your dentist will visually inspect your entire mouth and throat for any abnormalities. They will also gently feel the tissues of your mouth, jaw, and neck to check for any lumps or firmness.
Is an oral cancer screening painful?
No, the screening is completely non-invasive and painless.
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
We recommend an oral cancer screening for all adult patients at least once a year. If you have a higher risk due to factors like tobacco use or a history of cancer, we may recommend more frequent screenings.
Can a dentist diagnose oral cancer?
While a dentist can identify suspicious lesions, a definitive diagnosis can only be made through a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is sent to a lab for analysis. If we find anything of concern, we will refer you to the appropriate specialist for further evaluation.