Oral Cancer Screenings

What to Expect from an Oral Cancer Screening

At Forest Hill Dental in Germantown, we prioritize every aspect of a patient’s oral health, which includes routine screenings for oral cancer. Oral cancer screenings are an essential part of preventive dental care, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes. 

The Importance of Regular Oral Cancer Screening

Regular oral cancer screenings are essential for early detection and treatment. Even if you have no symptoms or risk factors, it's crucial to undergo routine screenings as part of your preventive dental care. Early-stage oral cancer often presents with no symptoms, making regular screenings the best way to detect it in its earliest and most treatable stages. Here's what you can expect during an oral cancer screening at our practice:

Step 1: Visual Examination

During a routine dental check-up, our dentists will perform a visual examination of your oral cavity, including your lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and the roof and floor of your mouth. They will look for any abnormalities, such as:

  • White or Red Patches: These can indicate areas of tissue that have changed and may be precancerous or cancerous.

  • Sores or Lesions: Any persistent sores or lesions that have not healed within two weeks should be investigated further.

  • Lumps or Thickened Areas: These may be signs of abnormal tissue growth or tumors.

Step 2: Palpation

In addition to the visual examination, our dentists will use their hands to feel for any lumps or irregularities in your oral tissues. This process, known as palpation, helps detect abnormalities that may not be visible to the naked eye. Our dentists will gently press and manipulate various areas of your mouth to assess for any changes in texture or size.

Additional Oral Screening Diagnostic Tools

In some cases, our dentists may use additional diagnostic tools to aid in the screening process:

  • ViziLite®: ViziLite® is an oral cancer screening device that uses a special light to detect abnormal cells in the oral cavity. Healthy tissues appear dark while abnormal tissues appear white under the light, making it easier to identify potential areas of concern.

  • Toluidine Blue Stain: This dye is applied to the oral tissues and can help highlight abnormal cells that may be indicative of cancerous or precancerous lesions.

Step 3: Referral for Further Evaluation (if Necessary)

If our dentists identify any suspicious areas during the screening process, they may recommend an oral cancer biopsy or a consultation with a specialist. Here’s what you can expect from a typical biopsy procedure:

  1. Sample Collection: A small sample of tissue is collected from the suspicious area using a special tool or biopsy punch.

  2. Lab Analysis: The tissue sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis by a pathologist. The pathologist examines the sample under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present.

  3. Diagnosis: A biopsy is the definitive method for diagnosing oral cancer. It provides valuable information about the type and stage of cancer, which guides further treatment decisions.

Consultation with a Specialist

Depending on the findings of the oral cancer screening, our dentists may refer you to an oral surgeon, otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist), or oncologist for further evaluation and treatment. Here’s what you can expect during a consultation with a specialist:

  1. Comprehensive Evaluation: The specialist will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health, including a review of your medical history and any diagnostic tests or imaging studies.

  2. Treatment Planning: Based on the findings, the specialist will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these modalities.

  3. Ongoing Care: Throughout your treatment journey, the specialist will provide ongoing care and support to ensure the best possible outcomes. They will monitor your progress, manage any side effects of treatment, and adjust your treatment plan as needed.


Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening

At Forest Hill Dental in Germantown, TN, we are committed to your oral health and well-being. Our comprehensive dental exams include thorough oral cancer screenings to ensure early detection and prompt treatment if necessary.

Don't wait until symptoms develop; schedule your oral cancer screening today. Your health and safety are our top priorities, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

 
Sarah Vaughan