Oral Cancer Exam

According to the American Cancer Society, over 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year, with over 7000 of these cases resulting in the death of the patient. Fortunately, oral cancer can be diagnosed with an annual cancer exam provided by Drs. Goodner or Roberts. If caught early, oral cancer can be effectively treated.

Oral cancer is a pathologic process, which begins by producing no symptoms making it hard to recognize without an exam. There are many types of oral cancer, including teratoma, adenocarcinoma and melanoma. The most common form of oral cancer is malignant squamous cell carcinoma, which typically originates in the lip and mouth tissue. There are many other places in which oral cancers occur, including: the tongue, salivary glands, throat, gums, and face.

What to Expect

The oral cancer examination is painless. Dr. Roberts or Dr. Goodner will look for abnormalities and feel the face, glands, and neck for unusual bumps. Some of the signs that will be investigated include changes in color, dimension, or function. Red or white patches on the floor of the mouth, the tongue, or bleeding sores which fail to heal normally can be indicative of cancerous changes. Leukoplakia is a hardened white or gray, slightly raised lesion that can appear inside the mouth, and may be indicative of oral cancer. Finally, soreness, lumps, or the general thickening of tissue anywhere in the throat or mouth can signal pathologic signs, and will be examined.

If abnormalities, lesions, lumps, or leukoplakia are apparent, your doctor will implement a treatment plan that is right for you. Treatment options vary according to the precise diagnosis, but may include excision, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

It is also important to note that over 75% of oral cancers are linked with avoidable behaviors such as smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption. We will be happy to provide you with literature about quitting dangerous behaviors such as tobacco use, as well as assist you with support as you work toward healthy lifestyle habits.