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Oral Cancer Screening

Cancer is a vicious disease that strikes when we least expect it. But Dr. Daniel Adelpour can catch oral cancer early before noticeable symptoms appear. When abnormal, cancerous tissue is discovered early on as a part of a routine general dentistry appointment, it can be easier to manage or cure.

What is Oral Cancer?

Also known as mouth cancer, oral cancer is when abnormal tissues form in the oral cavity and includes all the soft tissues inside the mouth that you see when you open wide, including your:

  • Lips
  • Gums
  • Tongue
  • Cheeks
  • Roof and floor of the mouth

Mouth cancers can start in the oral cavity and spread to other body parts, like the head and neck.

Signs You Might Have Oral Cancer

As you get older, it’s wise to perform cancer self-screenings periodically. Here are some oral cancer symptoms to be aware of:

  • An oral sore that won’t heal or go away on its own
  • A white or reddish patch of skin inside the mouth
  • A lump or growth inside the mouth
  • Difficulty or soreness when swallowing
  • Mouth or ear discomfort
  • Loose teeth

Oral Cancer Screening Expectations

If you notice any of the previously mentioned symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Dr. Adelpour will investigate your symptoms and tell you if he suspects oral cancer.

Oral cancer screening doesn’t require any special preparations for patients, and it’s typically a part of routine dental cleanings and checkups at BLVD Dental. When our dental team screens for oral cancer, our dental team will:

  • Visual exam: Dr. Adelpour will scan the inside of your mouth to inspect for white patches, lumps, and other abnormalities.
  • Tactile exam: With a gloved hand, he will feel the inside of the mouth and search for abnormalities.
  • Digital x-ray: Also, he might suggest a low-radiation, digital x-ray to check for signs of cancer that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

If Dr. Adelpour suspects oral cancer, he might recommend a follow-up visit within a few weeks or order a biopsy to ensure that your abnormal cells aren’t cancerous.

How to Prevent Oral Cancer

While there are no proven methods of preventing oral cancer, here are some ways to reduce your risk of developing it:

  • Don’t use tobacco: Tobacco usage is on the rise, and if you haven’t indulged in this everyday lousy habit yet, don’t start. If you smoke or chew tobacco, avoid exposing your mouth to carcinogens by quitting.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol: Excessive alcohol can irritate the cells in your mouth, which makes them vulnerable to oral cancer. If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation.
  • Shield your lips from sun exposure: When lathering up on SPF, we rarely consider protecting our lips from the sun’s intense UV rays. So, apply a lip balm with SPF, wear a broad-brimmed hat that shades your face, and avoid excessive sun exposure.
  • Schedule regular dental appointments: Cancer screening is a part of a routine dental exam.

Screen for Oral Cancer with our dentist in Mid-Wilshire Los Angeles, CA

Keeping your mouth cancer-free is vital to maintaining your quality of life and livelihood. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Adelpour by calling 310-620-8060 or messaging BLVD Dental Aesthetics online.