Cancer of any kind is not something we want to think about, but it is important to keep an eye on our bodies to see if things are changing. Just like you get your skin checked every year, you should be getting your mouth checked at least twice a year!

It is possible to detect oral cancer early, which vastly increases the chances of full recovery and no lasting issues.

Here are four ways to detect oral cancer.

1 – Self Exam

Just like with most things, you know your body (and mouth) best. Keep a constant eye on your mouth and be on the lookout for any significant changes including white patches, lumps of any kind, or sores. Check every month and if you see potential problem areas, take a picture so you can tell if they change over time.

Self-exams can be really critical for people who smoke tobacco or use alcohol because of the increased risk of oral cancer. 

2 – Blue Dye Test

In addition to doing a full dental exam, dentists may opt to do the “blue dye” test. This test uses a dye called toluidine blue and works under the premise that when the dye is spread over an abnormal area, it turns much darker than if it is on a normal area. 

3 – Fluorescent Light

Another test that dentists can take advantage of is using a fluorescent light. If we see an abnormal looking area during our exam, we can shine light on it. Usually, abnormal tissues reflect the light differently than normal tissue which would be a sign that something is wrong. 

This is another non-invasive option to gauge how the tissue looks and if there is something more going on.

4 – Biopsy

One of the most reliable ways to check for oral cancer is to actually biopsy some of the tissue in the affected area. If it is possible, we will use a stiff brush to scrape off some of the tissue in the affected area that will then get sent off for diagnostics. A lab will be able to quickly tell if they are pre-cancerous or cancerous cells.

Oral cancer can be scary, but there are a lot of ways to prevent it or catch it early. Start looking at your mouth every month and make sure to stay on top of your daily brushing and flossing. Don’t forget to schedule your biannual dentist visits so we can do thorough examinations of your mouth.

Call us today to set up your next exam!