What are Oral Cancer Screenings?

Oral cancer screenings are vital for early detection and prevention of oral cancer, a condition that can affect individuals of all ages. Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking or using chewing tobacco, increase the risk of developing oral cancer. At Noble Dental, we recommend annual oral cancer screenings to monitor your oral health and catch any potential issues early.

Why would Oral Cancer Screenings be needed?

Lifestyle factors like smoking and tobacco use significantly raise the risk of oral cancer. Even if you have quit smoking, regular screenings remain crucial. These screenings are quick and can help prevent serious oral health problems by detecting abnormalities early. Routine screenings are beneficial for everyone, regardless of tobacco use, to ensure comprehensive oral health.

What happens during Oral Cancer Screenings?

During an oral cancer screening, our dental team performs a thorough examination of your mouth. This includes lifting the tongue to check underneath and visually inspecting the inside and outside of your mouth. We look for unusual lesions, bumps, or plaque-like areas that could indicate oral cancer. If any abnormalities are detected, we may recommend a biopsy to determine if the area is benign or cancerous. Most screenings are negative, but early detection is key to addressing potential issues promptly.

What Types of Tools Are Used?

At Noble Dental, we utilize the OralID system for enhanced oral cancer screenings. OralID, developed by Forward Science, uses advanced fluorescence technology to aid in the visualization of oral mucosal abnormalities. The device employs a blue light (435-460 nm) to highlight areas of concern, such as oral cancer and pre-cancer. This technology is efficient, cost-effective, and does not incur per-patient costs, making it a valuable tool for early detection.