Did you know that there are more than 30,000 cases of oral cancer that are identified and diagnosed each year in the United States, with nearly 7,000 of these cases resulting in a fatality? The American Cancer Society doesn’t release these numbers just to scare you but to drive home the importance of a regularly scheduled oral cancer screening. If you are in the Scottsdale, Arizona area, you can visit our team at Brilliant Smiles Dentistry, where Drs. Terry Peterson and Stephanie Troglin can provide you with an oral cancer screening. Detecting oral cancer at the earliest stages is your best weapon against fighting this deadly disease.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. Oral cancer can surface anywhere in the mouth, including on the gums, lips, or tongue. It can also surface on the roof of your mouth, the inner lining of your cheeks, or the mouth’s floor. Oral cancer is part of a broader group of cancers called head and neck cancers. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving survival rates. Symptoms often go unnoticed in the early stages, making regular dental check-ups important for early detection. Risk factors include tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and prolonged sun exposure to the lips.

Are there modifiable behaviors that can lead to oral cancer?

Yes, several modifiable behaviors can increase the risk of developing oral cancer. Tobacco use through smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and using smokeless tobacco products is a significant risk factor. Heavy alcohol consumption also elevates the risk, especially when combined with tobacco use. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV-16, is linked to a higher risk of oral cancers. Poor diet, lacking fruits and vegetables, can contribute to oral cancer risk. Excessive sun exposure, leading to lip cancer, can be mitigated by using lip balms with SPF and wearing hats. Modifying these behaviors can significantly reduce the risk of oral cancer.

Oral Cancer

Are there specific symptoms linked to oral cancer?

Symptoms of oral cancer can include, but are not limited to:

  • Mouth sores that will not heal
  • Noticeable lumps on the inner cheek
  • Patches of red or white on the gums, the lining of your mouth, or tonsils
  • Unexplained bleeding in the mouth

Other signs include persistent sore throat, difficulty or pain when swallowing or chewing, numbness of the tongue or other areas of the mouth, and changes in voice or speech. Jaw pain or stiffness and loose teeth can also indicate oral cancer. If you experience any of the above symptoms and it persists for more than two weeks, it is essential to seek a dental or medical evaluation.

What kind of treatment is available for oral cancer?

Treatment for oral cancer depends on the cancer’s stage, location, and overall patient health. Common treatment options include surgery to remove the tumor, followed by radiation therapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. In advanced cases, chemotherapy may be used in conjunction with radiation therapy. Targeted therapy, which involves drugs that target specific cancer cells without affecting normal cells, is another option. Immunotherapy may be considered, particularly for recurrent or metastatic oral cancers. Rehabilitation, including speech therapy and reconstructive surgery, may be necessary to restore function and appearance post-treatment. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Where can I get an oral cancer screening?

The good news is that you can get an oral screening from a neighborhood dentist in the Scottsdale, Arizona, area, like the team at Brilliant Smiles Dentistry. If you are ready to schedule an oral cancer screening, please reach out to our Scottsdale, AZ office today by calling (480) 613-3476.

Dr. Terry Peterson is a highly skilled dentist with extensive expertise in modern dental techniques near Scottsdale, AZ 85254

About Dr. Terry Peterson

Dr. Terry Peterson is a highly skilled dentist with extensive expertise in modern dental techniques. He was raised in Utah and completed his dental education at Creighton University School of Dentistry after earning a Bachelor’s in Business Management from Brigham Young University. Since 2011, Dr. Peterson has practiced dentistry in the Phoenix area, where he is known for his warm and personable approach to patient care. He prioritizes treating each patient like family, ensuring a trustworthy and comfortable experience. Connect with Dr. Terry Peterson on Linkedin