What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can occur on the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, and inside the cheeks.

What are the most common symptoms of oral cancer?

Persistent mouth sores that don't heal within two weeks
Red or white patches in the mouth
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
Lumps, thickening, or rough spots in the mouth
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Persistent ear pain
Numbness or pain in any area of the mouth
Swelling or changes in the jaw
Dramatic weight loss 

Who is at highest risk for oral cancer?

Tobacco users (smokers and smokeless tobacco users)
Heavy alcohol consumers
People over 40 years old
Individuals with HPV (human papillomavirus)
Those with a history of prolonged sun exposure
People with a weakened immune system
Individuals with a previous oral cancer diagnosis

How often should I get screened for oral cancer?

Dental professionals typically recommend:

Annual oral cancer screenings for adults over 40
More frequent screenings for high-risk individuals
Screenings during routine dental check-ups

What does an oral cancer screening involve?

A typical screening includes:

Visual examination of the mouth, lips, and throat
Physical palpation of the jaw and neck to check for lumps
Using special lights or dyes to highlight abnormal cells
Checking for restricted movement of the tongue or jaw

Can oral cancer be prevented?

Prevention strategies include:

Avoiding tobacco in all forms
Limiting alcohol consumption
Maintaining good oral hygiene
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Protecting lips from excessive sun exposure
Getting vaccinated against HPV
Regular dental check-ups

How is oral cancer diagnosed?

Initial visual and physical examination
Brush biopsy or tissue sample
Imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs
Referral to a specialist for comprehensive diagnosis

Are there any warning signs I should be particularly alert to?

Immediate dental consultation is recommended if you experience:

A sore that doesn't heal within two weeks
Persistent throat pain
Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
Unexplained numbness in the mouth
A lump or thickening in the cheek

Remember, while dentists can perform initial screenings and provide valuable information, a definitive diagnosis requires specialized medical evaluation. If you have concerns, always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice.

More specialized medical evaluation with healthcare professionals information and details can be found at Fiona Stanley Hospital, Medical Oncology and PCH.

What is preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining good oral health to prevent dental problems before they occur. It includes regular cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, sealants, and patient education about proper oral hygiene. The goal is to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues rather than treating them after they develop.

What preventive services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive preventive care including routine dental cleanings, oral exams, digital X-rays, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, oral cancer screenings, gum disease prevention, bite analysis, and personalized oral hygiene instruction. We also offer custom mouthguards for sports and night guards for teeth grinding.

How do dental sealants work and who needs them?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth where cavities commonly form. They're especially beneficial for children and teenagers, though adults with deep grooves in their teeth can also benefit. Sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities in treated teeth for several years.

What is fluoride treatment and is it necessary?
Fluoride treatment involves applying concentrated fluoride to teeth to strengthen enamel and prevent decay. It's particularly beneficial for children, adults at high risk for cavities, those with dry mouth, or patients with a history of frequent cavities. Professional fluoride treatments are much stronger and very good quality.

How effective is preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is highly effective when combined with good home care. Regular cleanings and checkups can prevent most dental problems and catch issues early when they're easier and less expensive to treat. Studies show that preventive care can reduce the need for major dental work by up to 60%.

What's included in a routine dental cleaning?
A professional cleaning includes removing plaque and tartar buildup above and below the gum line, polishing teeth to remove surface stains, flossing, and applying fluoride if needed. We also perform an oral exam to check for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other potential issues.

Talk to your dentist at Aberdeen Dental Centre about gentle and friendly dental care in Albany, WA

How often should I get professional Dental cleanings?
Most patients benefit from cleanings every six months, but frequency depends on your individual risk factors. Patients with gum disease, diabetes, a history of frequent cavities, or poor oral hygiene may need cleanings every 3-4 months. We'll recommend the best schedule for your specific needs.

Can preventive dentistry help with bad breath?
Yes, professional cleanings remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar that commonly cause bad breath. We can also identify underlying issues like gum disease or dry mouth that contribute to halitosis and provide appropriate treatment recommendations.

What preventive care do you recommend for children?
For children, we recommend regular checkups starting by age one, fluoride treatments, dental sealants on permanent molars, proper brushing and flossing instruction, dietary counseling to limit sugary snacks and drinks, and custom mouthguards for sports activities.

Is preventive dentistry covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive services at 100%, including routine cleanings, exams, and X-rays. Fluoride treatments are typically covered for children and sometimes for high-risk adults. Sealants are usually covered for children. We'll verify your specific benefits and maximize your preventive coverage.

Can vaping cause the same oral health problems as smoking?

Yes, vaping can cause many similar issues including gum disease, dry mouth, and potentially oral cancer, though long-term research is still ongoing.

How much does smoking increase my risk of losing teeth?

Smokers are 2-3 times more likely to lose teeth compared to non-smokers, with heavy smokers facing even higher risks.

Will my teeth whiten naturally after I quit smoking?

Some surface stains may fade, but professional whitening treatment is usually needed for significant improvement.

Can I still get dental implants if I smoke?

While possible, dental implants have higher failure rates in smokers. Many dentists recommend quitting smoking before implant surgery.

How often should smokers see the dentist?

Smokers should typically see their dentist every 3-4 months for cleanings and checkups, rather than the standard 6-month intervals.

Take Action: Your Next Steps to Better Oral Health
 

The damage smoking causes to your oral health is serious, but it's not irreversible. Whether you're ready to quit smoking or just want to minimize damage while you work toward that goal, taking action now can save your teeth, gums, and potentially your life.