Oral Cancer Screening
Beaverton, OR
 Regular dental exams and dental cleanings play an important part to maintaining our oral health. These routine check-ups are about more than just preserving your teeth. If you are due for a dental exam and cleaning, be sure to schedule an appointment with us here at Summercrest Dental. Scheduling appointments are made easy by giving us a phone call at (503) 649-7701 or scheduling an appointment through our website.
What Else is Involved in a Dental Cleaning and Exam?
Oral cancer screenings are the frontline defense against a subtle foe that often goes unnoticed - oral cancer. Not only can an oral cancer screening detect potential signs of cancer early on, but it also greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
What Happens in an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a visual and physical examination of your oral cavity. This includes the lips, gums, tongue, cheek lining, as well as the throat region. The goal is to identify any irregularities or signs that might tip off towards the onset of oral cancer. This process is typically integrated into your routine dental exam, ensuring you get checked for any potential threats during your regular dental cleaning.
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Visual Examination: Your dentist will look for discolorations or sores in your mouth. Tools may be used to help provide a more detailed look at the back of your throat and mouth.
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Physical Examination: Beyond just visuals, your dentist will also physically touch or palpate the head, cheeks, chin, jaw, and oral cavity to identify any unusual lumps or bumps, or immobile tissues that arouse suspicion. |
What if the Dentist Finds Something Questionable During My Screening?
One of the procedures implemented during oral cancer screening is a biopsy. The dentist may perform a biopsy if they spot anything questionable during the visual or physical examination. Biopsy, in the context of oral cancer screening, is the removal of a small sample of irregular tissue from your mouth for further laboratory testing. Tests will determine if cancerous cells are present or not.
Is a Biopsy Painful?
During an oral cancer screening that includes a biopsy, some discomfort may be experienced, but it is typically minimal and temporary. While local anesthesia is often administered to minimize discomfort, patients may feel slight pressure or a pinching sensation during the procedure. However, any discomfort is usually brief, and our dentist, Dr. Alex Marrero, strives to ensure patient comfort throughout the process. It's important to communicate any concerns or discomfort to the dentist, so he can take steps to address them and ensure a smooth experience.
When Will I Receive Results From My Biopsy?
The duration for receiving results from an oral cancer screening biopsy can vary depending on several factors, including the specific testing methods used, the laboratory's workload, and the urgency of the case. In many cases, preliminary results may be available within a few days to a week after the biopsy procedure. However, final pathology reports, which provide a comprehensive analysis of the tissue sample, may take longer, typically ranging from one to two weeks. It's essential to discuss the expected timeline for receiving results with our team, as we can provide specific information based on your situation and the laboratory's processing times.
Proactive measures such as biopsy oral cancer screening are essential in safeguarding oral health and overall well-being. Be sure to contact us today if you are in need of an oral cancer screening.
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