Oral Cancer Screening: Preventative Dental Care

Did you know oral cancer is the world's sixth most common type of cancer? That's why seeing our dentist at Roseborough Dental in Mississauga, ON, is important for regular oral cancer checks. Early detection is key to oral cancer and can often mean the difference between life and death.

What's involved in an oral cancer check?

During an oral cancer check, our dentist will visually and physically examine your mouth for any signs or symptoms of cancer. This includes looking for any changes in the colour or texture of your oral tissues and feeling for any lumps or bumps. The dentist may also use a special light to look for abnormal tissue growths. If anything suspicious is found, our dentist will likely recommend further testing.

How can oral cancer be treated?

Treatment is often very successful if oral cancer is caught in its early stages. The most common treatment for oral cancer is surgery, which may be followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be used. Working with your team to create a treatment plan that's right for you is essential.

Factors that put you at an elevated risk:

Several factors can put you at an increased risk of developing oral cancer. These include:

• Tobacco use: Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco increase your risk of oral cancer. This is because they contain harmful chemicals that can damage the DNA in your cells and lead to cancerous growths.
• Heavy alcohol use: Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol also increases your risk of oral cancer. Alcohol can damage the DNA in your cells and make it more difficult for your body to repair this damage.
• UV light exposure: Spending time in the sun without adequate sunscreen protection can increase your risk of oral cancer. UV radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in your cells and lead to the development of cancerous growths.
• Family history: If you have a family history of oral cancer, you may be at an increased risk for developing the disease. Specific genetic mutations can be passed down from generation to generation.

Contact us today for regular oral cancer checks. And if you have any concerns about oral cancer, don't hesitate to bring them up with us during your next appointment.