Why We Look for Signs of Oral Cancer During Each Full Exam
Posted on 6/16/2025 by Esthetic Smiles
As your dentist, my goal is to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. During your regular checkups, I don't just examine your teeth and gums for signs of decay or gum disease. I also perform a thorough oral cancer screening. This might seem like an extra step, but it's incredibly important for early detection and preventing serious complications.
Oral cancer, which includes cancers of the mouth, tongue, lips, throat, and salivary glands, can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. The good news is that oral cancer is highly treatable when found early. In fact, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer caught in its early stages is over 80%. That's why I make it a priority to check for any suspicious signs during every comprehensive oral exam.
So, what exactly do I look for? I'm trained to identify potential warning signs, such as:
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Red or white patches: These abnormal changes in the lining of your mouth could indicate precancerous or cancerous lesions.
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Sores that don't heal: A sore that doesn't disappear within two weeks can be a cause for concern.
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Lumps or thickenings: Unusual lumps or bumps in your mouth or neck could be a sign of underlying cancer.
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Difficulty chewing or swallowing: If you experience persistent difficulty with these actions, it's important to get checked.
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Numbness or pain: Persistent numbness or pain in the mouth or face can be a warning sign.
If I notice any of these signs during your exam, I'll likely recommend further investigation, such as a biopsy. This will help determine if the suspicious area is cancerous and guide the necessary treatment.
Remember, even if you don't experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to attend regular dental checkups. Early detection is key in the fight against oral cancer. By being proactive, you can increase your chances of successful treatment and a healthy future.
In addition to regular checkups, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing oral cancer:
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Avoid tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are major risk factors for oral cancer. Quitting these habits is the most important step you can take to protect your oral health.
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Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of oral cancer, especially when combined with tobacco use.
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Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce your risk of developing various cancers, including oral cancer.
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Protect your lips from the sun: Use sunscreen or lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from harmful UV rays.
By following these recommendations and maintaining good oral hygiene practices, you can significantly improve your oral health and reduce your risk of developing oral cancer. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!
Oxnard, CA Dentist | About Esthetic Smiles Establishing a higher level of dental care through our professional experience, expertise, and advanced techniques in Oxnard, CA. Call to book an appointment! Esthetic Smiles - Dr. John Abajian, DDS, 1901 N. Solar Dr. Suite 135, Oxnard, CA 93036, 805-365-4222, myestheticsmile.com, 11/5/2025, Page Phrases: dentist Oxnard CA,
As your dentist, my goal is to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. During your regular checkups, I don't just examine your teeth and gums for signs of decay or gum disease. I also perform a thorough oral cancer screening. This might seem like an extra step, but it's incredibly important for early detection and preventing serious complications.