Oral Cancer Screening in Grande Prairie, AB | Boisson Dental Group

Oral cancer refers to any cancers affecting the mouth, including lips, inside of cheeks, tongue,  throat, and tonsils. These types of cancers account for about 3% of all the cancers diagnosed in North America. As with most types of cancer, early detection greatly increases a patient’s likelihood of a successful recovery. For this reason, Boisson Dental all of our dental exams and cleanings include a thorough inspection of the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer. We also have digital imaging technology to help detect and diagnose tumors.

At the mention of the word ‘cancer’, many patients panic.however, with early detection oral cancers have a high success rate for treatment. Coming in regularly for exams and checkups is your best bet, as well as being aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer. A sore throat or a feeling of a lump in the throat that doesn’t go away, pain, sensitivity, discoloration or any usual bumps that do not go away in a few days are things to be mindful of. Come in for a dental exam if any of these symptoms persist for more than a week.

If, upon examination, your dentist finds something unusual, a biopsy may be ordered to determine if the lesion is cancerous or benign. If oral cancer is detected, a combination of chemotherapy and surgery to remove the cancer will be the likely course of action.

There are certain risk factors that increase the chances of a patient developing oral cancer. Smoking and alcohol consumption as well as genetics can all play a part. The human papilloma virus has also been linked to oral and neck cancers as well. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption as well as eating a balanced, healthy diet are all things that can be done to reduce your chances of developing oral cancer. Maintain regular visits every six months with your family dentist for cleanings and oral cancer screenings.