Oral cancer is a serious and frequently dangerous disorder that affects various parts of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, lips, and throat. According to NIDCR, it's about three percent of all cancers diagnosed yearly in the United States. Each year, thousands of people face this diagnosis, and catching it early can significantly improve survival rates. While regular dental visits are essential, adding a quick self-screening to your routine gives you an extra layer of protection.
A monthly self-check takes only a few minutes and it can help you notice unusual lumps, sores, or discoloration that may need professional attention. Dr. Ashley Lerman, a pediatric dentist, encourages this simple habit. Regular self-checks help you stay in control of your oral health, empowering you to catch early signs that might otherwise go unnoticed.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, begins when harmful cells grow uncontrollably in areas of the mouth, such as the gums, tongue, lips, cheeks, and throat. In its early stages, oral cancer can progress silently, which makes regular screenings essential. Unlike common mouth issues, signs of oral cancer—such as persistent sores, white or red patches, or unusual bleeding—do not heal on their own. If left untreated, oral cancer can spread to other areas in the mouth, throat, head, and neck.
Early identification is very important and greatly increases the chances of treatment working. The five-year survival rate is significantly higher when oral cancer is caught early, dropping to around 57% if detected in later stages. This underscores the importance of vigilance, regular screenings, and early intervention.
Why is Oral Cancer Self-Screening Important?
Oral cancer is one of the more common cancers affecting the head and neck, with thousands of new cases diagnosed each year. Regular screenings by dentists or healthcare providers are a vital part of routine check-ups. However, performing self-screenings at home can also be a proactive step toward early detection, helping you identify changes in your oral health before they become serious. At FirstGrin, Dr. Ashley Lerman emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, encouraging families to stay proactive in monitoring their health.
With oral cancer having a five-year survival rate of approximately 57%, early detection is key to improving outcomes. Self-screenings help you identify potential abnormalities, allowing you to seek professional attention as soon as possible. Being familiar with the signs of oral cancer empowers you to take control of your health and increase the chances of successful treatment.
Oral Cancer Self Screening at Home
According to Dr. Ashley Lerman at FirstGrin, conducting a self-exam for oral cancer every month can be a proactive step in maintaining your health. Ideally performed right after brushing and flossing, this quick yet comprehensive exam requires good lighting and a mirror. Here’s a step-by-step guide to thoroughly check your mouth and surrounding areas:
Examine Your Face and Neck
First, take a good look at your face in the mirror. Keep your mouth closed and observe your skin, checking for any unusual swelling, changes in texture, or areas that look or feel different. Next, gently turn your head from side to side and pull the skin taut over your facial muscles. This can make any lumps or bumps more noticeable. After this, move on to your neck. Use the balls of your fingers to feel along the large muscles on both sides of your neck and under your jawline. Check for any swelling or lumps, especially around the lymph nodes, and note if both sides feel the same.
Inspect Your Lips
Now, take a close look at your lips. Pull your upper lip upward and your lower lip downward to examine both the inside and outside. Look for any changes in color, such as red or white patches, lumps, sores, or unusual texture changes. Use your index finger to feel around the lips, paying special attention to any sore spots or areas that haven’t healed within a couple of weeks, as these could indicate a potential issue.
Look Inside Your Mouth
Open your mouth wide and, using a mirror, carefully inspect the inside of your cheeks, gums, and the roof and floor of your mouth. Look for any red or white patches, swelling, sores, or unusual lesions. With clean fingers, gently press along the gum line and inside your cheeks to feel for any lumps, thickened areas, or irregular textures. Check both the top and bottom gums, moving from front to back.
Check Your Tongue
Stick out your tongue and look at it from all angles—check the top, sides, and bottom of the tongue for any unusual changes in color, such as red, white, or dark patches, sores, or lumps. Lift your tongue and look at the bottom and floor of your mouth for any bumps or areas that feel rough or sore. Use your finger to gently press different areas to detect any tenderness, swelling, or abnormal textures.
Feel Along Your Neck and Jaw
With your mouth closed, feel along your jawline and the sides of your neck. Move your fingers gently around the neck muscles and near the lymph nodes to check for any unusual lumps, swelling, or hardened areas. Pay close attention to any lumps, as these may indicate that cancer has spread. If you feel any new or unusual lumps, it’s essential to follow up with a healthcare provider.
Examine the Roof of Your Mouth
Tilt your head back slightly and look at the roof of your mouth with your mouth wide open. Look for red or white spots, sores that don't look right, or changes in the structure. Use a clean finger to gently press and feel the area, noting any rough patches or spots that seem tender or different from the surrounding tissue.
Check Your Tonsils and Throat
Finally, check your tonsils and the back of your throat. Tilt your head back and use a flashlight if needed. Look for any unusual growths, swelling, or areas of discoloration. A sore throat that doesn’t go away or lumps in this area can also be a sign to monitor.
Performing this monthly check-up helps you stay vigilant about your oral health. If you notice any persistent sores, unusual lumps, or patches that don’t seem to heal, it’s essential to reach out to Dr. Ashley Lerman or another healthcare professional for a detailed examination. Early identification greatly improves the chance of effective therapy and positive results.
What Happens After Oral Cancer Screening?
After an oral cancer screening, if any suspicious areas are found, further tests such as a biopsy or cytology may be recommended. A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample from the abnormal area to examine it under a microscope, while cytology involves collecting cells from the area to check for cancerous changes. Although oral cancer screenings are not diagnostic, they are an important tool for identifying early signs of cancer, which allows for timely intervention and improved treatment outcomes. If necessary, a treatment plan will be developed based on the results, and ongoing monitoring and follow-up screenings will be recommended to ensure continued oral health.
Signs to Look For During Self-Screening
Here are some warning signs that could indicate oral cancer:
- Persistent sores, ulcers, or lumps in the mouth or on the lips that don’t heal.
- White or red patches inside the mouth, on the tongue, or on the gums.
- Difficulty swallowing, chewing, or speaking.
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth or throat.
- Numbness or pain in your mouth, lips, or tongue.
- A lump or swelling in the neck or jaw place.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with oral care Dr. as soon as possible for further evaluation.
Conclusion
Oral cancer self-screening is a simple yet effective way to monitor your oral health and catch early signs of cancer. Regular self-exams, along with routine visits to your dentist, can play a crucial role in detecting oral cancer at an early stage, when it is most treatable. If you notice any abnormal changes or have concerns, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a professional exam.
Remember, early detection is key, and you have the power to take charge of your health through awareness and regular check-ups.
