An oral cancer screening is an examination for signs of cancer in the mouth. This allows the dentist to find potential cancer cells as early as possible when they are most treatable. While the tests can be used to scan for multiple types of cancer, there is no set or standard screening test for oral cancers.
The exam often includes looking for lesions in the mouth that may include areas of leukoplakia, or an abnormal patch of white cells, or erythroplakia, an abnormal patch of red cells. While these patches do not necessarily mean cancer they can potentially become cancerous.
If lesions are found, procedures used to find oral or oropharyngeal cancer may include fluorescence staining or a brush biopsy.
If your dentist does a cancer screening, it does not mean that they are specifically concerned you may have cancer. Instead, it is a precautionary measure.
Book an appointment today. Call (978) 537-8566 or book online. In addition, we are located at 31 Cinema Blvd. Leominster, MA 01453.
