Preventative
Dentistry
Oral Cancer Screening in Pembroke, ON
At Parkview Dental, we’re dedicated to preserving your oral and overall wellness. Dr. Munro is proud to provide oral cancer screenings at patients’ routine oral hygiene appointments. We aim to perform screenings at least once every year, as early detection can greatly improve your survival rate. Read on to learn more about screenings and why early detection is so important.
The Importance of Early Detection
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, three people die from oral cancer every day, which makes the survival rate for oral cancer lower than breast, cervical, and prostate cancer. Oral cancer is 90 percent curable, which is why early detection is so essential.
Additionally, oral cancer screenings are fast, easy processes that can be completed at your regular checkup. It’s recommended that you get screened at least once a year, but Dr. Munro can perform screenings at both of your biannual appointments.
The Oral Cancer Screening Process
There are a few different ways we can perform an oral cancer screening. During a regular hygiene appointment, Dr. Munro will feel around the jawbone and neck for any unusual lumps. He’ll also perform a thorough examination of your mouth, looking for any of the common signs of oral cancer.
We can also examine patients in our office using a system called Oral ID. This system takes advantage of advanced fluorescent technology to identify abnormal lesions under the patient’s skin. The process is quick and works without needing any X-rays.
Signs of Oral Cancer
By keeping an eye out for the early signs of oral cancer, it’s possible to treat it with a high level of success. Oral cancer typically reveals itself in the tongue, tonsils, gums, and cheeks. Some early signs of oral cancer that a patient can detect at home include:
- Red or white ulcers that won’t heal
- Growing lumps or lesions
- Irregular bleeding
- Shifting teeth
- Thickening oral tissues
- Persistent lower facial sores
- Difficulty moving the mouth, tongue, or jaw
- Dramatic, sudden weight loss
We aim to provide each of our patients with an oral cancer screening performed alongside their routine cleanings and exams. If you have not yet received your oral cancer screening this year, contact our Parkview office by calling (613) 735-2336 to schedule an appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes oral cancer?
There are several risk factors associated with oral cancer. Patients may be at a higher risk if they:
- Use tobacco products
- Have a genetic disposition
- Have HPV
- Consume heavy amounts of alcohol
- Have been previously diagnosed with oral cancer
- Have a history of heavy sun exposure
If any of these apply to you, it’s especially important to get screened for oral cancer. Early detection can help boost your survival rate significantly. If you have any questions or concerns regarding oral cancer, a team member will happily assist you.
How can I prevent oral cancer?
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent oral cancer, there are some ways to lower your risk, such as:
- Developing an active lifestyle
- Avoiding alcohol and tobacco
- Scheduling biannual routine cleanings
- Consuming foods rich in antioxidants
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Protecting your lips from UV rays
When should you get oral cancer screening?
While it’s ideal to schedule biannual appointments at our Parkview office for routine cleanings, exams, and oral cancer screenings, the frequency of your screenings can depend on your age. For patients over the age of 20, they can choose to receive screenings once every three years. However, it’s recommended that patients over 40 have annual screenings.