Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral Cancer screenings are a regular part of all of our dental exams. From your first dental visit, the Doctors and Hygienists at Waldron Smile Center perform a careful and comprehensive examination of the inside of your mouth and tongue. We are here to help you with all of your oral care needs.

What are some Risk factors that contribute to developing Oral Cancer?

• Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of oral cancers. Studies have shown that 90% of patients with oral cancer use some type of tobacco product. The risk of developing these cancers increases with the amount used daily and the number of years using these products. Smokers are 6 times more likely than non-smokers to develop these cancers. Those who chew tobacco are just as likely to develop oral cancer as those who smoke.

• Frequent consumption of alcohol is also linked to oral cancer. 75% to 80% of all patients with oral cancer drink alcohol frequently. These cancers are about 6 times more common in drinkers than in non-drinkers.

• Oral and oropharyngeal cancer has been linked to HPV-16 (human papillomavirus version 16) infection.

• More than 30% of patients with cancers of the lip have outdoor jobs associated with prolonged exposure to sunlight.

• A diet low in fruits and vegetables is associated with an increased risk of developing cancer of the oral cavity.