Oral cancer screening refers to a series of tests that allow us to determine if you have oral cancer or if you have any precancerous conditions to look out for. According to the American Cancer Society, there are over 30,000 cases of oral cancer diagnosed annually, and 7,000 reported deaths as a result of oral cancer. Oral cancer can happen to anyone, but you have a significantly higher risk of oral cancer if you smoke or chew tobacco, consume excessive alcohol, or if you’re constantly exposed to direct sunlight without protection. During your oral cancer screening, the private dentist near me will lookout for signs and symptoms that indicate oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
Oral cancer screening at Nottingham Dental comprises three types of examinations — visual, physical, and screening tests.
- Visual Examination: The dentist will first visually examine your mouth and oral cavities for anomalies like bumps, swellings, sores, and red or white patches. The dentist may also use a tongue depressor and shine a light into your oral cavities.
- Physical Inspection: Next, the dentist will physically examine different parts of your mouth to look for bumps that may not be visibly evident.
- Screening Tests: Finally, the dentist will run some screening tests to look for abnormal tissues. They’ll shine a special light into your mouth that will highlight abnormal tissues in white. Or they’ll ask you to rinse with a special dye that will color the abnormal growth blue.
If you have anything to worry about, these oral cancer screening tests will catch them before they get serious.