The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings: Risk Factors, Prevention, and Early Detection at Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma

Oral cancer is a serious and often life-threatening condition that affects thousands of people every year. Early detection and regular screenings can dramatically improve the chances of successful treatment and survival. As an expert oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan, DMD, MD, is dedicated to providing comprehensive oral cancer screenings to help patients stay proactive about their health. This blog post will explore the importance of oral cancer screenings, the risk factors contributing to oral cancers, and how Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma can help you stay ahead of potential health concerns.

What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth, including the lips, gums, tongue, inner cheeks, the roof of the mouth (palate), and the floor of the mouth. It can also affect the throat (oropharyngeal cancer). Oral cancer can spread rapidly if not detected and treated in its early stages, which is why routine screenings are crucial for early diagnosis.

As part of our commitment to excellence at Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, we offer thorough oral cancer screenings during routine exams, especially for high-risk patients. Our screenings are designed to detect any early signs of abnormal tissues or lesions in the mouth that could indicate the presence of cancer.

Ulcers and other white or red lesions seen on the floor of the mouth or side of the tongue generally require prompt removal and biopsy.  Elite Oral Surgery owner Dr. Jeremy Egan, DMD, MD specializes in the diagnosis of benign and cancerous lesions of the oral cavity and face and treatment of oral pathology.

Why Are Oral Cancer Screenings Important?
Oral cancer screenings are a critical component of preventive health care. Early detection of oral cancer can mean the difference between life and death. When detected early, oral cancer has an 85-90% survival rate. However, the prognosis becomes more grim if the cancer is not found until it reaches an advanced stage. Regular screenings help ensure that any unusual changes in your mouth are caught early, which increases the likelihood of successful treatment.

At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Egan provides expert screenings using the latest technologies to identify potential problems before they become life-threatening. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging systems, allow for a more comprehensive assessment, giving you peace of mind.

Who Should Get Oral Cancer Screenings?
Oral cancer screenings should be a routine part of dental and medical care, especially for adults over the age of 40 and those who engage in high-risk behaviors. It is recommended that patients have at least one screening per year, with more frequent checks for those in high-risk categories. Even if you are not in a high-risk category, regular screenings are still essential, as oral cancer can develop in anyone, regardless of their lifestyle or background.

High-Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
There are several factors that can significantly increase your risk of developing oral cancer. These include:

1. Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless tobacco products (such as chewing tobacco) is one of the most significant risk factors for oral cancer. People who use tobacco are far more likely to develop cancer in the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat.
2. Heavy Alcohol Use: Excessive alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use, greatly increases the risk of oral cancer. Alcohol can irritate the lining of the mouth, making it more susceptible to cancerous changes.
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV, a common sexually transmitted infection, is linked to certain types of oropharyngeal cancers, particularly cancers in the back of the throat and tonsils. HPV-related oral cancers are becoming increasingly prevalent, especially in younger adults.
4. Age: The risk of oral cancer increases with age. Most cases are diagnosed in individuals over 40, with the average age of diagnosis being around 60.
5. Sun Exposure: Chronic exposure to the sun, particularly without protection, can increase the risk of lip cancers. People who work outdoors or spend a lot of time in the sun should be especially vigilant about lip protection and screenings.
6. Poor Oral Hygiene and Nutrition: Neglecting oral health or consuming a diet low in fruits and vegetables can contribute to an increased risk of developing oral cancer. A healthy diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants is essential in reducing this risk.
7. Family History: A family history of cancer, particularly head and neck cancers, can put individuals at a higher risk of developing oral cancer.

Warning Signs of Oral Cancer
It’s essential to be aware of the early signs of oral cancer so you can seek medical attention promptly. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to contact Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma for a screening:

• Persistent sores or ulcers in the mouth that do not heal within two weeks
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
• Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or feeling as though something is caught in the throat
• Numbness or loss of feeling in any part of the mouth
• Lumps or thickening in the cheek, gums, or other parts of the mouth
• Hoarseness or chronic sore throat
• Pain in the ear without hearing loss

These symptoms do not necessarily mean cancer is present, but they warrant immediate attention for further evaluation.

The Oral Cancer Screening Process at Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma
During your oral cancer screening with Dr. Jeremy Egan, you can expect a thorough and comfortable examination process. The screening is painless and takes only a few minutes but is critical in identifying potential issues early.

1. Visual Examination: Dr. Egan will begin by examining the inside of your mouth, checking the tongue, gums, roof of the mouth, cheeks, and throat for any visible abnormalities, such as sores, red or white patches, or unusual growths.
2. Physical Palpation: He will then gently palpate your face, jaw, and neck to feel for any lumps, nodules, or hardened areas that may indicate the presence of oral cancer.
3. Advanced Diagnostic Tools: In some cases, additional diagnostic tools such as special lights or dyes may be used to highlight abnormal tissues. If suspicious areas are identified, Dr. Egan may recommend a biopsy to further investigate the nature of the lesion.

Preventing Oral Cancer
While it is not always possible to prevent oral cancer, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk:

• Quit Smoking: If you use tobacco, quitting is the single most effective step you can take to lower your risk.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Reducing alcohol intake can significantly decrease your risk of oral cancer, especially when paired with a tobacco-free lifestyle.
• Protect Yourself from HPV: Consider the HPV vaccine to reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables supports overall health and can reduce the risk of developing cancer.
• Regular Screenings: The importance of regular oral cancer screenings cannot be overstated. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

Why Choose Dr. Jeremy Egan for Your Oral Cancer Screening?
At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan is committed to providing the highest standard of care for his patients. With extensive training and experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery, including advanced head and neck cancer treatment, Dr. Egan is well-equipped to perform thorough and accurate oral cancer screenings. His expertise, combined with a compassionate approach, ensures that every patient receives exceptional care and personalized attention.

If you’re due for an oral cancer screening or have noticed any unusual changes in your mouth, don’t wait. Early detection saves lives. Contact Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma today to schedule your oral cancer screening with Dr. Jeremy Egan, the best oral surgeon in Oklahoma. Call us at (918) 123-4567 or visit www.eliteoralsurgeryofok.com.

Internal Links:

• Learn more About Us at Elite Oral Surgery.
• Learn more information about Oral Biopsy.

External Links:

• American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
• National Cancer Institute: Oral Cancer