Here's What We Look for During Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer screenings are an important part of dental exams because they allow dentists to help catch concerning signs or symptoms early enough to treat them. Although it may sound scary, in reality, it is a very beneficial process. Dr. Hal Kussick can help you keep your oral and dental health in good condition. Schedule a consultation with Dental@888 General and Aesthetic Dentistry in Seattle, WA today.

What are oral cancer screenings?

Oral cancer screenings are a type of examination that is typically done during a dental exam. This screening allows Dr. Kussick to asses your mouth, gums, lips, and soft tissue for any abnormalities that may be present. Routine oral cancer screenings allow for early detection of many oral cancers so that you can get treatment early when being cured is more likely. The screening may lead to more tests down the road to ensure any abnormalities found in your mouth are noncancerous.

What is looked for during an oral cancer screening?

Dr. Kussick is looking for any abnormalities or lumps within your mouth that should not be there. This could be a lot of things, such as:

• Sores
• Lesions
• Red or white patches
• Lumps in the soft tissues of your mouth
• Other issues that could be a sign of cancer

In addition to an oral exam, your throat and neck might also be checked for lumps and other issues. Other tests may be used to best complete an oral cancer screening. A special type of oral cancer screening dye can be used to better see any abnormal cells. You rinse your mouth with a blue dye before the exam, and abnormal cells can take up the dye to look blue. An oral cancer screening light is a similar technology. The special light is used during your exam, and when shined on abnormal tissues, they appear white, while healthy tissue is a dark color.

What happens after an oral cancer screening?

What happens after your oral cancer screening depends on the results of the examination. If everything looks good, and Dr. Kussick does not find anything concerning in your mouth, you should be fine to resume your normal daily activities. However, if he finds a sore, lesion, or lump concerning, more tests may need to be done. The only way to know if a spot is cancerous is to have a biopsy done. This is where we remove a portion of the abnormal cells and test them for cancer cells. While oral cancer screenings may not be able to detect all oral cancers, they are still a great tool for early detection.

Where can I get an oral cancer screening in Seattle, WA?

Oral cancer screenings are designed to find any concerning cells in your mouth early enough for successful treatment to occur. Dr. Hal Kussick may look for abnormalities like sores, lesions, lumps, red or white patches, and more to determine if your mouth is in good condition. Dr. Kussick can help you find the best examinations and treatments possible for your goals and needs. Contact Dental@888 General and Aesthetic Dentistry in Seattle, WA today for a full consultation on the overall state of your oral and dental health.