Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer accounts for 2.9% of all diagnosed cases of cancer in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that 51,000 people across the country will develop oral cancer this year and that 10,000 fatalities are expected from the disease.

Oral cancer can occur anywhere in the orofacial complex but is most often found on the tongue, the tonsils and oropharynx, the gums, floor of the mouth, lips, cheek lining or the hard palate.

Men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer as women. Those particularly at risk are men over the age of 50 who are heavy smokers and frequently drink alcohol. Additional risk factors may include UV exposure, GERD, prior head and neck radiation treatment, exposure to certain chemicals, and poor diet.

As part of a comprehensive exam, the dentist will perform a screening for oral cancer. The dentist will review the patient's medical and dental histories and carefully check in and around the oral cavity as well as the head and neck area for any signs or symptoms.