The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings

During your regular biannual dental exam and cleaning, in addition to checking your teeth and gums for cavities and periodontal disease, your dentist also provides a valuable oral cancer screening. These in-depth checks look for abnormalities in your mouth that could indicate any stage or oral cancer. Here are some of the warning signs they look for and which stage of cancer they could be if found.

Stage 0

Stage 0 is the earliest stage of oral cancer, which is also known as carcinoma in situ. This describes abnormal cells in the lining of your lips or oral cavity that have the potential to become cancerous.

Stage 1

Stage 1 oral cancer is the very beginning, when a cancerous tumor is less than two centimeters and has not yet spread to the lymph nodes.

Stage 2

At Stage 2, the tumor is larger than two centimeters, but not larger than four centimeters, and has not yet spread to the lymph nodes.

Stage 3

Stage 3 oral cancer describes a tumor that is either larger than four centimeters, or that has spread to a lymph node in the neck.

Stage 4

Stage four is the most advanced stage of oral cancer and can be any size. Stage 4 cancer has spread to either nearby tissue (including the jaw or other parts of the mouth), one large lymph node (larger than three centimeters) and on the same side of the neck as the tumor, multiple lymph nodes of any size on the same side of the neck as the tumor, or one lymph node of any size on the side of the neck on the opposite side of the tumor. It could also have spread to other parts of the body beyond the mouth, including the lungs.

Early detection of oral cancer can dramatically improve your odds of survival, but in order to stop it before it spreads, you should attend regular dental exams so your dentist can keep a close eye on your oral health. If any stage of cancer is detected, your dentist can help you get the care you need to stop it from spreading and possibly save your life.

About Dr. Crowley

Dr. Patrick Crowley takes pride in making his patients smile. Whether he’s providing a smile makeover, a new set of dental implants, or a valuable oral cancer screening, he understands the importance of a gorgeous, healthy grin. If you’ve noticed any abnormalities in your mouth, or if it’s simply time for your biannual exam and oral cancer screening, book your appointment with Bluff Creek Dental today by visiting our website or calling us directly at 405-751-5515.