Treatment with compassion
Shubhakara Dental Clinic, BSK 1st Stage, Bengaluru.
Monday- Saturday
10AM-1PM 5PM-8PM
+91 8296241497
+91 8296241497
Oral cancer is one of the top three cancers reported in India. Any cancer of the cheek, gums, palate, or tongue is referred to as oral cancer. The most common risk factors associated with it are tobacco use (tobacco chewing, tobacco smoking like cigarette and beedi usage, betel nut chewing) with or without chronic alcoholism, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and poor dental care.
Oral cancer detection is a critical aspect of dental and medical care, as early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and survival.
Here are some key points regarding oral cancer detection:
Regular Dental Check-ups
Routine dental check-ups play a crucial role in oral cancer detection. We at Shubhakara Dental Clinic are trained to identify suspicious lesions or abnormalities in the mouth during oral examinations.
Visual Inspection
We will visually examine the oral cavity, including the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, palate, and throat, looking for any signs. A white /red /white and red patch, a long standing ulcer, a lump are some of the indications of oral cancer.
Manual Palpation
We may gently palpate (feel) the tissues in the oral cavity and neck to detect any unusual masses, swelling, or tenderness that could indicate underlying pathology.
Risk Assessment
Dentists assess the patient's risk factors for oral cancer, including tobacco and alcohol use, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection, sun exposure (for lip cancer), and family history of cancer.
Patient Education
We educate patients about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer and encourage self-examination at home. Patients are advised to promptly report any persistent oral abnormalities, such as sores that do not heal, changes in the color or texture of tissues, or difficulty swallowing or speaking.
Biopsy and Referral
If suspicious lesions are identified during an oral examination, we may recommend a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is collected for laboratory analysis to confirm or rule out cancer. Patients with confirmed or suspected oral cancer are referred to oncologists or oral surgeons for further evaluation and treatment.
Multidisciplinary Approach
The diagnosis and management of oral cancer often involves a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including dentists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists.
Awareness and Early Intervention
Public awareness campaigns promote the importance of early detection and timely intervention for oral cancer. Early-stage oral cancers are more likely to be treated successfully with less aggressive therapies and have better outcomes.
Overall, oral cancer detection relies on comprehensive oral examinations, risk assessment, patient education, and timely referral for further evaluation and treatment. Collaboration between patients and healthcare providers is essential for early detection and improved outcomes in oral cancer management.