SAN ANTONIO: Oral and oropharyngeal cancers are responsible for more than 58,000 new cases annually in the U.S., according to the Oral Cancer Foundation. With early detection being crucial to effective treatment, dentists are urging patients to prioritize routine oral cancer screenings during dental checkups.
“An oral cancer screening only takes a minute or two and could truly be lifesaving,” said Dr. Brian Secrist, a dentist at UT Dentistry’s General Dentistry Clinic.
Oral cancer can develop in various parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and the roof or floor of the mouth. It can also occur in the throat and the oropharyngeal region, impacting swallowing and speech.
Dr. Tiffany Tavares, a clinical assistant professor of oral medicine at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, highlighted key risk factors for oral cancer. These include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, HPV exposure, weakened immune systems, and a history of cancer.
“Sun exposure is a leading risk factor for lip cancer, while chronic inflammatory conditions like oral lichen planus may also elevate the risk,” she added. However, oral cancer can still occur in individuals with no identifiable risk factors.
Dentists and dental hygienists are often the first line of defense in detecting oral cancer. During a dental checkup, they perform thorough examinations of oral tissues and look for red or white patches, ulcers, lumps, or abnormal thickening in the mouth. Persistent sores lasting more than two weeks often warrant closer inspection.
“Dentists are trained to recognize early signs of oral cancer and will either monitor suspicious areas or refer patients for further evaluation,” Dr. Secrist explained.
Symptoms to watch for include:
• Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Swelling or numbness in the mouth or jaw
Patients can reduce their risk of oral cancer by avoiding tobacco and alcohol, adopting a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and using lip balms with SPF protection. “Protecting yourself from sun exposure by wearing hats and using sunscreen on the lips can lower the risk of lip cancer,” Dr. Tavares advised.
By staying vigilant and attending regular dental visits, patients can take proactive steps to safeguard their health. “A quick screening during your routine checkup could make all the difference,” said Dr. Secrist.