The early symptoms of oral cancer can be very similar to other oral or even general health problems, which could make them easy to overlook. Because of that, you should call Avanti Dentistry at (703) 952-0663 any time you notice any changes to the soft tissues of your mouth. Our team will help you plan a visit with our dentists, Dr. Farshad Farhoumand and associates, for an oral cancer screening in Tysons Corner, Virginia.
Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, mouth, tongue, cheeks, throat, sinuses and hard palate. Oral cancer is one of the more easily treatable cancers, but only when it is caught in its earliest stages. However, most cases of oral cancer are not detected until they have progressed into more advanced, serious stages and become highly difficult to treat. Like any cancer, oral cancer can be life-threatening. Because of this, we are dedicated to providing regular oral cancer screenings to check for disease and get you the necessary treatment to protect your overall health. This screening will usually take place during your regular dental checkups with our dentists and team.
The following are the most common symptoms of oral cancer. If you are experiencing any of the below symptoms, we encourage you to reach out to our dentists and team as soon as possible for an appointment:
- A sore throat that will not go away or frequently returns, or a feeling that you have something caught in the back of your throat
- Bleeding in the mouth with no clear or apparent explanation
- A lasting sore on the face, neck or mouth that does not go away or heal within two weeks
- Unexplained pain or numbness in the face, neck or mouth
- Ear pain
- Any lumps, bumps, rough or tender spots on your lips, gums or any other part of your mouth
- Red, white or spotted patches in or on the mouth
- Increasing difficulty in chewing, swallowing or speaking
- A change in the bite of teeth or dentures, or how they meet together
Our dentists and team will check for these symptoms during every screening to help ensure you and your smile stay in good health. If you have any questions about oral cancer, we encourage you to contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screenings
What are the symptoms of oral cancer?
Mouth or oral cancer can happen anywhere in the mouth, but it’s likely to form on the tongue, cheeks, lips, gums, palate, and just behind the mouth (oropharynx).
Although the following signs don’t mean oral cancer, you should seek medical attention immediately.
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- An abnormal lump or bump in the mouth
- Painful or difficulty swallowing
- Mouth sores that don’t heal for over two weeks
- Pain or tenderness on your teeth and gums
- Numbness in your tongue
- Voice changes
- Unexplained swelling or fullness in the neck
What can I expect during oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer exam is painless and quick. It’s also convenient because it’s done alongside your regular dental exam. Before your screening, the dentist will request you remove your dentures, aligners, and other removable appliances to have an unobstructed view of your oral structures. The dentist will visually inspect your mouth for patches, lesions, sores, and other abnormal signs. We’ll also use gloved hands to palpitate your neck, gums, and jaws to feel unusual bumps or masses. If we find abnormalities, we’ll schedule another exam to inspect if the abnormality has reduced, increased, or remained constant. Sometimes, special lights and dyes may be used to separate abnormal tissues from healthy ones.
Who needs oral cancer screening?
All patients should be screened for mouth cancer. While age, tobacco use, heavy drinking, and HPV exposure increase the risk of oral cancer, everyone is at risk. It’s generally recommended to have an oral cancer screening at least once a year during your routine dental check-up. Your doctor might suggest screenings every six months for higher-risk individuals as part of a preventive plan. Regular screenings are essential for everyone, providing peace of mind and identifying issues before symptoms become apparent.
Why is early detection important?
Do you know one American dies every hour because of mouth cancer? Mouth cancer is a deadly disease, but the good thing is that you can stop it in its tracks. Like other cancers, early detection of mouth cancer is vital in your prognosis. When detected early, oral cancer patients have an 80-90% survival rate. Early detection means early treatment before the cancer advances and spreads to other body parts.
What if I have oral cancer?
Our oral cancer exams don’t diagnose you with oral cancer—they detect abnormal signs that need further scrutiny. If we discover a suspicious sore or lump that doesn’t go away, we’ll refer you to a specialist for a tissue biopsy. This test involves taking a small sample of your tissue to analyze it closely under a microscope. An oral cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence—early detection leads to a high chance of successful treatment and recovery.
Where can I be screened for oral cancer near me?
Avanti Dentistry offers painless oral cancer exams to patients in and around Tysons, Virginia. Call (703) 952-0663 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Farshad Farhoumand and his associates.
