Oral
Cancer Screening and Pathology
Because the mouth is a region where changes can be easily
seen oral cancer can be detected in the early stages. Performing
self-examination regularly will help in early recognition.
It is recommended that everyone do an oral cancer self-exam
once per month. If you at a high risk for oral cancer – smoker,
drinker, user of smokeless tobacco—you should also see your
oral surgeon for an exam yearly.
Things to look for in Oral Cancer Self-Examination:
Remember to check under and around tongue
Reddish patches
Whitish patches
A sore that fails to heal and bleeds easily
A lump or thickening of the tissues
Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
Difficulty in chewing or swallowing
If you have any of these signs, see your oral and maxillofacial
surgeon. Should the oral surgeon agree that something
looks suspicious, a biopsy may be recommended. The biopsy
report not only helps in establishing a diagnosis, but
also enables the doctor to make a treatment plan specifically
designed for the type of lesion diagnosed.
So keep in mind that your mouth is one of your body’s
most important early warning systems. Don’t ignore any
suspicious lumps or sores. Should you discover something,
make an appointment for a prompt examination. Early treatment
may well be the key to complete recovery.