Oral Cancer Screening
Ann Arbor, MI An oral cancer screening is a focused examination performed by Dr. Greashaber when you come in for a regular dental exam and checkup. This screening checks for early signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in and around the mouth. It is a quick, non-invasive part of a routine dental visit, and most patients do not even realize it is happening. The dentist visually inspects the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, the floor and roof of the mouth, and the throat, while also feeling the tissues and jaw for any unusual lumps or changes. The goal is straightforward: catch anything abnormal as early as possible, before it has a chance to develop into something more serious. If you have any questions or concerns regarding oral cancer or screenings, we encourage you to ask when you come in and see us at Greashaber Dentistry. Why Oral Cancer Screenings MatterOral cancer is more common than many people realize. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, tens of thousands of Americans are diagnosed each year, and the five-year survival rate drops significantly when the disease is caught at a later stage. When found early, oral cancer is highly treatable. When it goes undetected, it can spread to nearby tissues, the lymph nodes, and beyond, making treatment far more complex and outcomes less predictable. What makes oral cancer particularly dangerous is that it often develops without pain in its earliest stages. A small white patch, a sore that does not heal, or a subtle thickening of the tissue can be easy to overlook on your own. A trained dental professional, such as Greashaber Dentistry, however, knows what to look for and our dentist can identify changes that would otherwise go unnoticed until they become symptomatic. How the Screening Is PerformedThe process takes only a few minutes and requires no special preparation. The dentist will begin with a visual exam, using good lighting and sometimes a small mirror to examine every surface inside the mouth. They will look at the tongue, including its underside, as well as the gums, the inner lining of the cheeks, the palate, the floor of the mouth, and the back of the throat. Next, the dentist will gently feel along the tissues of the mouth, the jaw, and the neck. This palpation helps identify any firmness, asymmetry, or enlarged lymph nodes that could indicate an issue beneath the surface. Adjunctive tools may be used as well, such as special lights or rinses that cause healthy tissue to look different from potentially abnormal tissue, providing an additional layer of screening. If anything looks or feels unusual, the dentist will not immediately assume the worst. Most abnormalities turn out to be benign, caused by irritation, infection, or trauma. However, the dentist may choose to monitor the area at a follow-up appointment or refer you to an oral surgeon or specialist for a biopsy to confirm whether the tissue is healthy. Signs of Oral Cancer to Watch ForBeing aware of warning signs between dental visits is an important part of protecting your health. Contact Greashaber Dentistry promptly if you notice any of the following:
These symptoms do not necessarily mean cancer is present, but any of them lasting more than two weeks deserves a professional evaluation. Who Is at Risk?While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk. Tobacco use in any form, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco, is a leading contributor. Heavy alcohol consumption is another significant risk factor, and the combination of tobacco and alcohol raises the risk considerably higher than either alone. Prolonged sun exposure is linked to lip cancer specifically. Human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly the HPV-16 strain, has also been identified as a major risk factor for oropharyngeal cancers involving the back of the throat, the base of the tongue, and the tonsils. Age was historically a factor as well, with most cases occurring in people over 40, though HPV-related oral cancers have increased rates among younger adults in recent decades. Regardless of age or lifestyle, routine screenings are important for everyone. How Often Should You Have an Oral Cancer Screening?For most patients, an oral cancer screening is included as part of a routine dental examination, which is typically recommended every six months. Patients with elevated risk factors, such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, or a prior diagnosis of oral cancer, may benefit from more frequent evaluations and should discuss an appropriate schedule with the dentist. The twice-yearly dental visit is one of the most reliable opportunities to detect changes early. Skipping or delaying those appointments is one of the most common reasons oral cancer is not found until it has advanced. Schedule Your Next Appointment TodayOral cancer screenings are a simple, painless part of caring for your overall health, and they could genuinely save your life. If it has been more than six months since your last dental exam, now is a great time to schedule a visit. Contact Greashaber Dentistry today at (734) 519-7978 to set up an appointment. Our team is here to help you stay healthy, comfortable, and informed every step of the way. |
 Office Hours:Mon: 9am - 3pm Tue: 8am - 5pm Wed: 8am - 5pm Thu: 8am - 5pm Fri: Closed |
