When to Be Screened for Oral Cancer

Oral cancer rates have risen by approximately 15 percent from 1970 until 2004. This is according to a 2018 article cited by the National Institutes of Health. This year, a total of 54,010 adults in the United States have been estimated to be diagnosed with the disease.


Oral cancer is especially dangerous since you may not notice pain or any symptoms in its early stages. It's also only often discovered once it has already metastasized to another location. Are you wondering when you should be screened for oral cancer? Read on to find out what experts suggest to keep your oral health in tip-top shape.

Here's What You Need to Know

If you're older than 20, the American Cancer Society recommends that you get screened for oral cancer once every three years. Your risk of developing this disease increases with age. So, for those over 40, annual screening is highly advisable. Studies show that oral cancers usually occur in people over the age of 40. 

The screening process is painless and only takes a few minutes. Your dentist may screen you for this disease during your routine dental checkup. They may check your lips, entire mouth, face, and neck for possible signs of oral cancer. 

Signs You May Need Oral Cancer Screening

Most oral health care providers will suggest that you get examined for oral cancer, especially if you're at high risk. But it's also totally okay if you request a screening if you notice these five warning signs of oral cancer:

 

• Mouth Sores. For some people, having canker sores as well as cold sores is a common occurrence. But if this irritation in your mouth doesn't go away after two weeks, it could be a symptom of something else. If your mouth sores bleed, feel rough, or are painful, you definitely have to get them checked out. 
  
   

• Red or White Patches in the Mouth. Red or white patches on your gums, inside cheeks, tongue, or tonsils can also be an indication. It's easy to confuse these spots with strep throat. But if they persist, it can be a cause to be screened for oral cancer. 
  
   

• Lump In the Neck. A lump in the neck may only mean that your lymph glands are swollen due to exposure to allergens or viruses. But it could also be a manifestation of oral cancer. If the lump is persistent, an oral cancer screening will prove one or the other. 
  
   

• Bad Breath. If your bad breath doesn't go away even after brushing and using mouthwash frequently, then this could also be an indication that something is not right. This is especially true if you haven't been eating lots of spicy foods. 
  
   

You already know how important it is to take care of your teeth and gums. So, you brush your teeth and floss them regularly. But unless something is unusual, you may likely ignore little things like persistent mouth sores. 

For more on oral cancer screening, visit John K. See, DDS, in Camarillo, California. Call (805) 920-8600 to schedule an appointment today.