Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, palate, and tonsils. While it can be serious, the good news is that when caught early, the chances of successful treatment are significantly higher.
This is why regular oral cancer screenings are a vital part of your routine dental checkups at Bur Oak Dental in Markham.
The Importance of Early Detection
In Canada, thousands of people are diagnosed with oral and oropharyngeal cancers each year.
While survival rates vary, early detection dramatically improves prognosis and often leads to less invasive treatments.
Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed in later stages, making treatment more challenging.
Your dental team plays a crucial role in identifying suspicious changes in your mouth that you might not notice yourself.
Understanding Your Risk Factors
Several factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer.
Being aware of these can help you understand the importance of regular screenings:
- Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and using chewing tobacco or snuff are major risk factors.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Frequent and heavy drinking increases risk, and combining alcohol and tobacco use significantly multiplies the risk.
- HPV Infection: Human papillomavirus (specifically HPV-16) is a growing cause of oral and oropharyngeal cancers, especially in younger, non-smoking individuals.
- Age: Risk generally increases with age, particularly over 45, though HPV-related cases can occur earlier.
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight is a risk factor for lip cancer.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: While not a direct cause, neglecting your oral health can contribute to risk and make it harder to spot early signs.
- Poor Nutrition: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase risk.
Discussing your lifestyle and medical history with your dentist helps assess your individual risk.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
While regular screenings are essential, knowing the potential signs of oral cancer allows you to be proactive.
See your dentist immediately if you notice any of the following that persist for two weeks or longer:
- A sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal.
- A red or white patch on the gums, tongue, tonsil, or lining of the mouth.
- A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck.
- Numbness of the tongue or other area of the mouth.
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue.
- Chronic sore throat or a feeling that something is caught in the throat.
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
- Loose teeth or dentures that no longer fit well.
The Oral Cancer Screening Process at Bur Oak Dental
An oral cancer screening is a quick and painless part of your routine dental exam at any of our Markham locations.
Our experienced dentists and hygienists are trained to identify subtle changes in the tissues of your mouth and throat.
The screening typically involves:
- Visual Exam: Your dental professional will carefully look inside your mouth, including your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, the roof and floor of your mouth, and the back of your throat, checking for any red or white patches, sores, lumps, or other abnormalities.
- Physical Exam: Using gloves, they will gently feel the tissues in your mouth and neck to check for any lumps or unusual textures.
This simple examination only takes a few minutes and can be life-saving.
Why Choose Bur Oak Dental for Your Screening in Markham?
At Bur Oak Dental, our commitment is to your complete oral health, which goes beyond just cleaning teeth and fixing cavities.
As a family-oriented practice serving the Markham community since 2004, we prioritize preventative care, including thorough oral cancer screenings during every routine checkup.
Our warm and friendly team provides comprehensive care in a comfortable, welcoming environment across our three convenient Markham clinics:
We welcome new patients and offer free consultations.
By choosing Bur Oak Dental, your trusted Markham dentist, you’re choosing a team dedicated to your well-being and the early detection of potential health concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is oral cancer screening included in a regular dental checkup?
Yes, at Bur Oak Dental, an oral cancer screening is a standard, integral part of your routine dental examination.
Is the screening painful?
No, the screening is a gentle visual and physical examination and is not painful.
How often should I get screened?
The frequency of your screening depends on your individual risk factors and age. Your dentist at Bur Oak Dental will recommend the appropriate schedule for you, but for many adults, an annual screening is advisable.
What happens if the dentist finds something during the screening?
If a suspicious area is found, your dentist may recommend monitoring it for a short period, or they may suggest further investigation. This could involve taking a closer look, performing additional tests, or referring you to a specialist for a biopsy. Finding something during the screening doesn’t necessarily mean it’s cancer, but it means it needs to be evaluated further.
Is oral cancer screening covered by dental insurance?
Coverage varies depending on your specific dental insurance plan. Since the screening is part of a routine exam, the coverage typically aligns with your plan’s coverage for checkups. Our team can help you understand your benefits.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening in Markham
Don’t wait. Prioritize your health with a routine dental checkup that includes a vital oral cancer screening. It’s a quick, simple step that can make a profound difference.
Contact Bur Oak Dental today to book your appointment at one of our convenient Markham locations.