Why are oral cancer screenings performed during routine visits important?
Oral cancer affects millions each year and is one of the few types of cancers that can be caught early with a physical and visual assessment. Dr. Ramin Mirmooji and his associates at Msmiline Cosmetic Dentistry in Pierrefonds, Quebec, encourage patients to have oral cancer screenings performed at each visit to the dentist’s chair. And for a good reason–detecting this condition in the earlier stages improves the chances of overcoming it.
Why should I have routine oral cancer detection appointments?
Oral cancer screenings with your dentist are important to detect potential problems early on and increase the chances of successful treatment. Without proper care, oral cancer can spread through your body quickly and can even be deadly. However, early detection of oral cancer can significantly improve the chances of maintaining a healthy smile and treating it before it becomes a much bigger–and more dangerous–problem.
What can I expect during my oral cancer test?
Oral cancer screenings are a quick and easy way for your dentist to check for signs of this potentially dangerous condition. Your dentist will take a thorough look inside your mouth, checking for unusual areas or any red or white spots that may indicate cancer. Screenings also involve a visual exam of your face, head, neck, and jaw to check for signs of tumours or infection. If you are at risk for oral cancer due to factors like age, tobacco use, excess alcohol consumption, or a history of HPV infections or the Epstein-Barr virus, then your dentist will likely recommend more frequent screenings.
What can be done about oral cancer?
As with other types of cancer, patients have a few different treatment options, including excision of cancer, radiation treatments, or chemotherapy. Our team can recommend a referral to an oncologist who can help patients further explore their options for addressing cancer and getting their smile back to health!
Early detection helps the successful treatment of oral cancer.
Oral cancer screening is another important part of every examination at MSmiline. Basically, what we do, we use fluoroscopy – specialised lights in order to look inside your mouth to look for any abnormalities that might be there. It is important to detect any lesion that is inside of your mouth as early as possible. The chances of treating oral cancer, if caught early enough, is 95 percent.
Schedule a visit today to request a consultation appointment
It is important to schedule regular visits with Dr. Ramin Mirmooji and his team at Msmiline Cosmetic Dentistry so he can check for any signs of oral cancer and provide you with the treatment you need to help overcome this dangerous disease. So do not hesitate to book an appointment today and take care of your oral health! Call (514) 613-1888 to request a visit at 4935 Saint-Charles Boulevard in Pierrefonds, QC. We serve patients in the Pierrefonds West Island, Quebec community and surrounding cities.
Oral Cancer Screening FAQs
Why are oral cancer screenings important, even if I have no symptoms?
Oral cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages, so routine screenings are essential for early detection. Dr. Mirmooji performs detailed oral cancer screenings to identify early warning signs before they become serious. Detecting cancer early significantly improves treatment success rates and can be life-saving, especially since most oral cancer cases are diagnosed at later stages. Regular screenings offer peace of mind and ensure potential abnormalities are detected early.
What occurs during an oral cancer screening at Dr. Mirmooji’s office?
Dr. Mirmooji carefully inspects your tongue, lips, mouth, cheeks, gums, and throat for possible anomalies. He uses modern tools to check for suspicious lumps, sores, red or white spots, and tissue changes. If needed, he might recommend further testing, such as a biopsy, to ensure accurate diagnosis and timely intervention. The process is painless and takes only minutes, but it plays a key role in early detection and treatment success.
Who is at higher risk for oral cancer and should get screened more frequently?
While regular screenings help everyone, Dr. Mirmooji recommends more frequent checks for those with higher risk factors. These include tobacco and alcohol use, prolonged sun exposure, HPV infection, and other conditions. Patients over 40 and people with weakened immune systems should also be cautious. If you are high-risk, Dr. Mirmooji can create a customized screening plan.
Can an oral cancer screening detect other health issues?
Besides detecting cancer, Dr. Mirmooji’s screenings can reveal signs of other medical conditions. Issues like vitamin deficiencies, fungal infections, and autoimmune disorders may also present symptoms in the mouth. Early detection of these problems ensures proper treatment before symptoms worsen. Oral health is deeply connected to overall well-being, making regular screenings essential.
How often should I get an oral cancer screening?
Dr. Mirmooji suggests an annual oral cancer screening as part of your routine dental checkup. However, patients with high-risk factors like smoking or HPV may need screenings more frequently. These screenings are quick, painless, and essential for early detection, giving you peace of mind and extra protection. Schedule an additional screening if you notice symptoms such as persistent sores or unexplained pain.
What early warning signs of oral cancer should I watch for?
Dr. Mirmooji advises watching for persistent mouth sores, unexplained bleeding, lumps, or thickened tissues in the mouth or throat. Other signs include difficulty swallowing, chronic hoarseness, numbness, or ongoing pain. A sudden change in how your dentures fit or a sore that doesn’t heal within two weeks could also indicate a problem. Book an appointment immediately if you notice these symptoms.
Does an oral cancer screening hurt or require any special preparation?
No, an oral cancer screening with Dr. Mirmooji is painless and requires no extra preparation. The exam is quick, simple, and part of your regular dental visit. You don’t need to change your routine beforehand. If Dr. Mirmooji detects any concerns, he will discuss the next steps and ensure you receive the proper follow-up treatment. Early detection is key, and a quick screening can protect your health.
