Oral Cancer Screenings – Huntington Beach, CA

Promoting Early Detection and Timely Treatment

Experts estimate that 53,000 people in the US are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Affecting nearly 3% of the population, oral cancer isn’t as common as other types of cancer but can be just as deadly. Early detection and timely treatment is key, as survivability rates drop drastically once this condition reaches stage 3. Fortunately, your team here at Huntington Beach Periodontics can perform an oral cancer screening and help you monitor your health.

Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Close up of an abnormal sore on a patient’s tongue

The signs of oral cancer can be difficult for patients to identify on their own. Many symptoms are also common for other types of oral illnesses, and it can be tricky to get a complete view of your own mouth. To be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to get a screening if you or a loved one notices any of these symptoms:

Difficulty or discomfort while chewing or swallowing.
Persistent lip or mouth sores that linger after two weeks.
White, red, or speckled patches near or inside your mouth.
Abnormally thickened areas of tissue.
Lumps or bumps in your mouth, along your jaw, or in your neck.

What Does a Periodontist Look for During an Oral Cancer Screening?

Man opens his mouth so periodontist can check for oral cancer

As an expert in diagnosing and treating gum disease, Dr. Braga is also well qualified to look for signs of oral cancer. During a visual examination, he’ll take a closer look at your mouth and will be able to tell the difference between a canker sore and a more concerning abnormality. In addition to the signs listed above, Dr. Braga will also keep an eye out for callous-like tissue, asymmetrical ulcerations, and swelling.

Since certain factors can increase your risk of oral cancer, Dr. Braga will review your general health history. Be sure to mention whether you:

Have an HPV infection
Have a weakened immune system
Smoke or drink heavily
Are frequently in the sun or often get sunburns

What Can I Expect During My Screening?

Periodontist performing an oral cancer screening while woman opens her mouth

Oral cancer screenings are primarily visual. Many periodontal and dental practices perform them as part of a standard checkup, so it’s likely you’ve even had one before and not even noticed.

If a specific abnormality is concerning you, it can be helpful to point it out. Otherwise, Dr. Braga and one of our talented dental hygienists will conduct separate screenings to promote accuracy. They’ll both look at and possibly touch your gums, lips, throat, tongue, and the area underneath your tongue. They may also gently palpate your neck and jaw to check for hidden lumps and bumps.

Depending on Dr. Braga’s assessment, he will either diagnose any abnormality as something benign, have you return in about two weeks for a second screening, or refer you to a specialist.

Please keep in mind that an oral cancer screening is just that: a screening. Referring you to a specialist doesn’t necessarily mean that you do have oral cancer – it simply means we’d like an expert opinion. Rest assured, our team will help you take care of your oral health!