With 5400 Canadians diagnosed with oral cancer each year, regular oral cancer screenings at Nanaimo Smiles could save your life.
When you visit Nanaimo Smiles for your six-month dental check-up, part of your appointment is dedicated to conducting a screening for oral cancer. While this can sound a little scary, the oral cancer exam is very quick, and you may not even notice it all that much! But for such a small part of your regular dental check-up, it’s actually an incredibly important factor that can help us catch something well in advance of it turning into a bigger problem.
During your appointment, we always talk about the importance of preventative health when it comes to staying on top of brushing your teeth, flossing regularly, and scheduling your check-up with us every six months. Think of your oral cancer screening as just another way that we prioritize taking preventative measures. Here, we’ll give you everything you need to know about what oral cancer is, early signs and symptoms, how we check for it during your appointments, and treatment options if oral cancer is detected.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the mouth and throat, affecting important areas such as the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard or soft palate or in the bone. The most common form of oral cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which arises from the flat cells that line these regions. This condition can show up in several ways, often starting as persistent sores or lesions that don’t seem to heal. You might also notice lumps or thickening in the mouth or throat. Other signs can include changes in your voice, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained pain.
If oral cancer is left untreated, it can lead to serious and life-threatening issues. The cancer can grow and spread to nearby tissues, making it harder to treat later on. It may also metastasize to other parts of the body, which complicates treatment and lowers survival rates. As the disease progresses, it can cause significant pain, difficulty swallowing, and problems with speech, impacting your quality of life.
Approximately 5,400 Canadians are diagnosed with oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers each year.
(Source: Canadian Cancer Society)
Early Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Being aware of the early signs and symptoms of oral cancer is such an important step. Just like other dental care concerns such as gum disease or cavities, the earlier we can address these issues, the easier it will be for our Nanaimo dental team to create a treatment plan.
Some common indicators to watch for include persistent sores or ulcers in your mouth that just won’t heal after two weeks. You might also notice lumps or areas of thickening in your mouth or throat. Keep an eye out for any unusual white or red patches on your gums, tongue, or the lining of your mouth. Other symptoms can include difficulty swallowing or a feeling that something is stuck in your throat. Unexplained pain in your mouth, throat, or ears is another red flag, as well as any numbness or loss of sensation in your lips or mouth. Lastly, if you notice that your teeth are becoming loose for no apparent reason, this is a clear sign to contact your Nanaimo dentist as soon as possible.
Oral cancer is more common in men than in women, with men accounting for about 70% of cases.
(Source: Canadian Cancer Society)
Oral Cancer Exam in Nanaimo, BC
During your routine dental check-up at Nanaimo Smiles, we’ll perform a thorough examination of your mouth, throat, and surrounding areas. This involves checking for any unusual lumps, sores, or lesions, as well as examining the soft tissues for any signs of abnormalities. We look for persistent sores, white or red patches, and any other changes that may indicate a problem.
In some cases, we may use special tools, such as a light or dye, to help us spot areas of concern that may not be visible to the naked eye. If we find anything suspicious, we may recommend further testing, such as a biopsy, to determine whether it is cancerous. The screening is quick and non-invasive, usually taking just a few minutes as part of your regular appointment. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment, so we’ll screen for oral cancer every time you visit us at Nanaimo Smiles. Regular screening for oral cancer is especially important if you have risk factors like tobacco use or a history of oral lesions, so be sure to share that information with us.
The risk of oral cancer increases with age, particularly for individuals over the age of 50.
(Source: Canadian Cancer Society)
The 5-year survival rate for oral cancer is approximately 60% to 70% when detected early, but this drops significantly if diagnosed at a later stage.
(Source: Canadian Cancer Society)
Reduce Your Risk of Oral Cancer
Just as scheduling regular dental cleanings is one of the best ways to prevent issues like gum disease, visiting Nanaimo Smiles for regular oral cancer screenings is equally important to maintaining oral health. These screenings help detect any early signs of oral cancer, increasing your chances of successful treatment. By incorporating these screenings into your routine dental visits, you’re taking a proactive step in safeguarding your health. But there are other ways to take care of yourself when it comes to preventing oral cancer. Here are some important steps you can take to help protect yourself:
- Avoid Tobacco Products: One of the most significant risk factors for oral cancer is tobacco use, whether it’s smoking, chewing tobacco, or using cigars. If you currently use tobacco, we encourage you to seek help to quit.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption is another major risk factor. If you drink alcohol, consider moderating your intake. Sticking to recommended guidelines can help reduce your risk.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can provide essential nutrients that support your immune system. Certain foods, especially those high in antioxidants, may help reduce the risk of cancer.
- Get Vaccinated Against HPV: The human papillomavirus (HPV) has been linked to oral cancers. Vaccination can help prevent certain types of HPV. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether the vaccine is right for you.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Don’t underestimate the power of regular dental visits. During your check-ups, we can screen for early signs of oral cancer and address any concerns you might have.
Oral Cancer Screening and Prevention in Nanaimo, BC
At Nanaimo Smiles, our regular oral cancer screenings are designed to help catch any early signs of oral cancer before they become more serious. By incorporating these screenings into your routine visits at our Nanaimo dental clinic, we can work together to protect your health and ensure prompt action if any concerns arise. If you have any questions about oral cancer screenings in Nanaimo, BC, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
For additional oral cancer resources, we recommend starting here.