Oral cancer is a type of disease that develops in the mouth, tongue, or throat. There are a lot of different types of cancers, but a very common type is squamous cell carcinoma, commonly known as oral cancer. To determine whether you have it or not, schedule a Phillips oral cancer screening.
Oral Cancer Screening Facts
What Are the Tests?
A screening involves taking a sample of your saliva or tissue from your mouth and examining it under a microscope. There are two main types of screening tests:
- A visual examination by an expert dentist or doctor
- A laboratory test (called cytology) to examine cells from inside your mouth
What Are the Steps in Identifying Oral Cancer?
The first step in identifying oral cancer is by conducting a visual examination of your mouth and throat area. This can be done by checking your tongue, lips, teeth, and gums. You should also check for any sores that are bleeding or ulcers that have not healed after 10 days.
The next step in identifying oral cancer is to examine your neck area for any swollen lymph nodes or lumps on the neck. The oral cancer expert will also check your neck area with both hands to see if there are any hard masses around the jawline or throat region.
Who Can Undergo Oral Cancer Screening?
The American Cancer Society recommends that everyone should undergo screening for oral cancer at age 20. This is because there are some risk factors for oral cancer such as smoking and drinking alcohol which usually start in young adulthood.
Set a Phillips Oral Cancer Screening Appointment!
If you would like your symptoms assessed by an experienced dental professional at Northwoods Dentistry, come in for a consultation. Contact us today for an appointment.