24
Jun
5 Commonly Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer is a life-threatening condition, but it’s easy to treat when detected early. Unfortunately, many cases of mouth cancer are detected late because people ignore routine screenings. When you visit D. Bartholomew G. Kreiner D.D.S., we recommend oral cancer exams alongside your routine dental checkups. Mouth cancer exams in Bel Air, Maryland, are quick, painless, and non-invasive but can potentially save your life.
1. What are the symptoms of oral cancer?
Oral cancer can be subtle in its early stages, which is why regular screenings and awareness of symptoms are essential. Here are the common signs and symptoms of oral cancer to watch for:
- A persistent mouth sore that doesn’t heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- A chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Unexplained numbness, pain, or tenderness in the mouth
- A lump, rough spot, or thickened area in the mouth
2. Are mouth cancer exams painful?
Not at all. Mouth cancer exams are painless and non-invasive. They are also quick and usually take about five minutes. During the screening, the dentist visually inspects your gums, lips, throat, and other oral structures for patches, sores, lumps, and other abnormalities. The dentist may also use gloved hands to palpitate the throat and neck for unusual bumps, masses, or swellings.
3. I have a persistent mouth sore—what’s next?
If Dr. Kreiner discovers an abnormal sore or other irregularity, you may wonder what happens next. The dentist will schedule a further test to examine whether the lesion grew, plateaued, or reduced/went away over time. Besides visual and physical exams, special lights and dyes can be used to separate healthy tissues from abnormal ones.
Remember, oral cancer screenings at your dentist’s office don’t diagnose you with mouth cancer. A biopsy is the definitive diagnosis of oral cancer. This simple test analyses a sample of your tissue in a lab to determine if it’s cancerous or not.
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4. How often should I get checked?
We encourage open communication with our patients. With a clear understanding of your lifestyle and medical history, we can determine whether you are at a higher risk for mouth cancer. Typically, we recommend annual oral cancer screenings. However, if you are at a higher risk, Dr. Kreiner will recommend more frequent screenings. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
5. Why is early detection important?
Although you can’t prevent oral cancer entirely, your dentist can detect it early. As you probably know, cancer treatment becomes costly and less effective as the cancer advances. The same isn’t different for mouth cancer. The earlier we detect oral cancer, the higher the chances of successful treatment. In perspective, the five-year survival rate is over 80% when oral cancer is detected early. In contrast, late-stage diagnosis drops the survival rate below 50% because the cancer may have already spread to other parts of the body.
Another benefit is that early-stage oral cancer often requires less aggressive treatment. This means fewer side effects, lower costs, and a faster recovery.
Oral cancer screenings near me in Bel Air, MD
Routine oral cancer screenings are essential—even if you feel fine—because mouth cancer can advance without warning signs. When was the last time you were screened for mouth cancer? If it’s over one year, call (410) 983-6775 and reserve an appointment with D. Bartholomew G. Kreiner, D.D.S. Early detection of oral cancer can be lifesaving!
Dr. D. Bartholomew G. Kreiner
Dr. D. Bartholomew G. Kreiner, a distinguished dentist since 1989, earned his dental degree from the University of Maryland Dental School, where he also completed an Advanced General Dentistry Residency. His credentials include certificates from the Academy of Dentistry for the Handicapped and Gamma Pi Delta Prosthodontic Society. Dr. Kreiner has been an active member of the ADA, MSDA, and HCDS, and he is currently with the Academy of Laser Dentistry and an active member with the Greater Chesapeake Study Club and FACES. Known for his engaging and relaxed practice, he blends extensive expertise with a commitment to high standards in dental care.Connect with Dr. D. Bartholomew G. Kreiner on Linkedin