Oral Cancer Screening in Menlo Park, CA

Oral cancer screening is a routine examination a dentist conducts for signs of oral cancer. The dentist will look for abnormalities in the mouth, throat, lips, tongue, and gums, as they could be symptoms of oral cancer.  

At Stanford Family Dental - Dr. Jamie Paychev DDS, we usually perform oral cancer screening as part of a regular dental exam. During the oral cancer screening, the dentist will ask about your medical history and any symptoms you may be experiencing. The dentist will then use a light and a mirror to examine your mouth. They may look for white patches, red patches, or sores on your tongue, gums, or mouth.

The Causes of Oral Cancer 

• Tobacco use is the number one cause of oral cancer. This includes cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and pipes. Smoking or chewing tobacco increases your risk of developing oral cancer! 
• Alcohol consumption is another risk factor for developing oral cancer. Heavy drinkers are twice as likely to develop the disease as non-drinkers. 
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause oral cancer. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States. 
• Poor oral hygiene can lead to an increased risk of developing oral cancer. Not brushing your teeth regularly or not flossing can increase your risk of getting oral cancer. 
• Sun exposure can also cause oral cancer. People who spend much time in the sun without protecting their skin are at a greater risk of developing skin cancer. 
• Age is also a risk factor. As you get older, your risk of developing oral cancer increases. This is because our cells become less effective at repairing themselves as we age. 

The Benefits of Oral Cancer Screening 

Early Detection 

The most significant benefit of oral cancer screening in Menlo Park, CA, is the early detection of potential problems. By identifying suspicious lesions or abnormalities in their initial stages, treatment can begin promptly, often resulting in less invasive and more effective interventions. 

Reduced Complications 

Detecting oral cancer early can help prevent complications such as speech or swallowing difficulties, and disfigurement that may need extensive surgeries to correct.

Higher Survival Rates 

Oral cancer is known to have relatively high survival rates when detected early. On the other hand, late-stage oral cancer is often more aggressive and can be deadly. Screening can significantly improve your chances of survival.

Non-Invasive Procedure 

Oral cancer screenings are simple, quick, and non-invasive. During a screening, our dentist in Menlo Park, CA, will visually examine your mouth and may use additional tools like a VELscope or a special dye to identify abnormal tissues. There's no pain or discomfort involved in the process. 

If you are concerned about your oral health, seeing a dentist regularly for a screening is essential. Early detection is critical to successful treatment. Visit Stanford Family Dental - Dr. Jamie Paychev DDS at 150 Middlefield Rd #101, Menlo Park, CA 94025, or call (650) 328-2072 to schedule an appointment for an oral cancer screening.