Oral Cancer Exam in Winchester VA
According to the American Cancer Society, over 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year, with over 7000 of these cases resulting in the death of the patient. Fortunately, oral cancer can be diagnosed with an annual cancer exam provided by Dr. Dickson. If caught early, oral cancer can be effectively treated.
Oral cancer is a pathologic process, which begins by producing no symptoms making it hard to recognize without an exam. There are many types of oral cancer, including teratoma, adenocarcinoma and melanoma. The most common form of oral cancer is malignant squamous cell carcinoma, which typically originates in the lip and mouth tissue. There are many other places in which oral cancers occur, including: the tongue, salivary glands, throat, gums, and face.
What to Expect from an Oral Cancer Exam
The oral cancer examination is completely painless. Dr. Dickson will look for abnormalities and feel the face, glands, and neck for unusual bumps. Lasers may be used to highlight pathologic changes, and can “look” below the surface for spots and lesions invisible to the naked eye. Some of the signs that will be investigated are red patches and sores. Red patches on the floor of the mouth, or the front of the tongue, and bleeding sores which fail to heal easier, can be indicative of cancerous changes. Leukoplakia is a hardened white or gray, slightly raised lesion that can appear inside the mouth, and may be cancerous. Signs of these will be examined as well. Finally, soreness, lumps or the general thickening of tissue anywhere in the throat or mouth can signal pathologic signs, and will be examined.
If abnormalities, lesions, lumps, or leukoplakia are apparent, Dr. Dickson will implement a treatment plan that is right for you. Treatment options vary according to the precise diagnosis, but may include: excision, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
It is also important to note that over 75% of oral cancers are linked with avoidable behaviors such as smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Dr. Dickson can provide you with literature and options about quitting dangerous behaviors such as tobacco use.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ORAL CANCER EXAMS:
1. What is an oral cancer exam, and how does Dr. Dickson perform it?
Answer: An oral cancer exam at Virginia Dental Implant Institute is a comprehensive screening performed by Dr. Dickson during your routine dental visit. The exam involves a thorough inspection of the tissues in your mouth, tongue, gums, cheeks, and the soft tissues in the throat and neck. Dr. Dickson will look for abnormal lumps, sores, lesions, or any signs of potential cancer or precancerous conditions. He will also gently palpate (feel) the areas around your jaw, neck, and mouth to detect any unusual growths or tenderness. The exam is quick, non-invasive, and completely painless.
2. How often should I have an oral cancer exam at Virginia Dental Implant Institute?
Answer: At Virginia Dental Implant Institute, we recommend an oral cancer exam at least once a year, typically during your regular dental checkup. If you are over 40, have a history of smoking or heavy alcohol use, or have other risk factors for oral cancer, Dr. Dickson may suggest more frequent screenings. If you’re ever concerned about a specific symptom, such as a persistent sore or lump in your mouth, we encourage you to schedule an exam as soon as possible, regardless of when your last screening was.
3. What symptoms or signs should I watch out for?
Answer: While an oral cancer exam at our practice is essential for detecting issues early, there are certain signs you can watch for between visits. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to bring them to Dr. Dickson’s attention as soon as possible:
- Persistent mouth sores or ulcers that do not heal
- Unexplained lumps or thickening in the mouth, gums, or neck
- White or red patches inside the mouth or on the tongue
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Persistent hoarseness or a sore throat
- Unexplained bleeding or numbness in the mouth or jaw
If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact us right away so we can evaluate your situation.
4. Is the oral cancer exam painful or uncomfortable?
Answer: No, Dr. Dickson’s oral cancer exam is a quick and gentle procedure. There is no pain or discomfort associated with the screening itself. Dr. Dickson will carefully examine your mouth, throat, and neck, and may gently palpate these areas to feel for any abnormalities. If further testing, such as a biopsy, is needed due to an abnormal finding, we will discuss those next steps with you in detail. But the routine exam itself is entirely comfortable.
5. What happens if an abnormality is found during the exam?
Answer: If Dr. Dickson detects an abnormality during your oral cancer exam, he will discuss his findings with you and may recommend additional diagnostic steps, such as a biopsy, to confirm whether the area is cancerous or precancerous. Early detection is key, and Dr. Dickson will guide you through the next steps, whether that involves further testing, monitoring the area, or referral to a specialist for treatment. At Virginia Dental Implant Institute, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of care and support, ensuring the best possible outcomes if any issues are found.