An oral cancer screening is a routine part of a dental examination. Some of the many areas of the mouth, throat, head and neck that are inspected by dentists during a screening for oral cancer include the floor and roof of a patient's mouth. Dentists also examine the tongue for suspicious lesions and feel the lymph nodes in the neck area for any abnormalities.

Oral cancers are more likely to occur among people who use tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless varieties) and consume large amounts of alcohol.

However, more than 25 percent of people who are diagnosed do not smoke or drink heavily. This is another reason why individuals need to recognize the early warning signs and see their dentist regularly.

Adults also can take an active role in the detection of oral cancer by doing self-examinations. This means looking into a mirror and checking the lips, gums, cheek lining and tongue, as well as the throat, floor and roof of the mouth for signs of the disease.

Signs to look for include:

·        A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal

·        A color change of the oral tissue

·        A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small-eroded area

·        Pain, tenderness or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips

·        Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue

·        A change in the way the teeth fit together

If any of these signs or symptoms is noticed, contact your dentist immediately for a professional examination.

When diagnosed early, the survival rate for oral cancer is high. The main problem is that in its earliest, most treatable stages, oral cancer generally causes no pain or discomfort and can't be diagnosed visually.  

Knowing the risk factors and taking steps to prevent potentially cancerous lesions from developing can go a long way toward limiting the influence oral cancer can have on your life. Starting today, make it a point to join your dentist in maintaining good oral health for life.