Oral Cancer Screening in Kolkata
26
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NABH
Accredited
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Dental Professionals
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Happy Patients
50+
Dental TreatmentsOral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Oral Cancer Screening
Surgical Teeth Extraction
Wisdom Tooth Removal
Jaw Cyst Treatment
Tongue Tie
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What is Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is a quick, painless examination performed by a dentist to detect early signs of cancer in the mouth, throat, and surrounding areas. It involves checking for unusual lumps, lesions, or sores that could indicate cancer, helping with early diagnosis and treatment. Regular screenings are crucial for catching oral cancer at its most treatable stage.
Did you know that early detection of oral cancer can be life-saving? At Smile & Profile Dental Clinic, we prioritise your health with comprehensive oral cancer screenings, ensuring peace of mind with every visit.
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How Healthy Is Your Mouth? Take Our Oral Cancer Screening Quiz to Stay Safe
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How does Oral Cancer Screening Work?
Oral cancer screening involves a thorough examination of your mouth, throat, and surrounding areas to detect early signs of cancer, such as unusual lumps or lesions.
- A dentist examines your mouth, gums, and tongue for abnormalities
- Special tools or lights may be used to detect hidden changes
- Quick, painless, and usually takes only a few minutes
- Further tests or a biopsy may be recommended if suspicious areas are found
- Early detection improves treatment outcomes
Types of Oral Cancer Screening
Visual Oral Examination
- Most basic and commonly used screening method
- Dentist checks lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and throat
- Looks for red/white patches, sores, or unusual growths
- Quick, painless, and part of routine dental check-ups
Physical (Manual) Examination
- Doctor feels (palpates) the mouth, jaw, and neck
- Helps detect lumps, swelling, or hardened areas
- Checks lymph nodes for any enlargement
- Often done along with visual examination
Toluidine Blue Staining
- A special blue dye is applied to suspicious areas
- Abnormal or cancerous cells absorb the dye
- Helps highlight high-risk lesions
- Used as an additional screening aid, not a final diagnosis
Fluorescence Imaging (Light-Based Screening)
- Uses special light to examine oral tissues
- Healthy tissue and abnormal tissue reflect light differently
- Helps detect early changes not visible to the naked eye
- Non-invasive and quick procedure
Brush Biopsy (Oral Cytology)
- A small brush is used to collect cells from a lesion
- Sample is sent to a lab for analysis
- Minimally invasive and painless
- Helps decide if a surgical biopsy is needed
Conventional Biopsy
- Small tissue sample is removed from suspicious area
- Examined under a microscope for confirmation
- Considered the gold standard for diagnosis
- Done when other screenings show abnormal findings
Who Should Avoid Oral Cancer Screening?
- Recently screened with normal results
- Temporary mouth ulcers (healing within 1–2 weeks)
- Already diagnosed or under treatment
- Active oral infection or severe pain (delay advised)
- Avoid self-testing without medical guidance
Timeline of Oral Cancer Screening
- Initial Consultation (Day 1) : Review of symptoms, habits, and medical history
- Visual & Physical Examination (Day 1) : Immediate check of mouth and neck
- Advanced Screening (If Needed) (Day 1–2) : Dye or light-based tests done for evaluation
- Sample Collection (Day 2-4) : Biopsy or brush test performed if any suspicious area is found
- Lab Analysis & Diagnosis (Day 4-7) : Sample examined to confirm presence of abnormal or cancerous cells
- Follow-Up & Next Steps (Day 7) : Doctor discusses results and plans treatment or monitoring
After-Care Tips for Long-Lasting Results
- Avoid spicy, hot, or hard foods for a day if your mouth feels sensitive
- Maintain good oral hygiene, but brush gently around sore areas
- Do not touch or irritate any tested or biopsied spot
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol to prevent further irritation
- Stay hydrated to help with healing and comfort
- Use the prescribed mouthwash or medication if advised
- Watch for unusual pain, bleeding, or swelling
- Follow up with your doctor for reports and next steps
Frequently Asked Questions
Can oral cancer be detected in early stages?
Yes, oral cancer can often be detected early through regular screening. It helps identify abnormal changes before noticeable symptoms appear.
Is oral cancer screening covered in routine dental check-ups?
Yes, many dentists include oral cancer screening as part of routine check-ups. It is usually a quick examination done along with your regular oral assessment.
Can oral cancer screening detect throat cancer?
Screening may identify visible signs in accessible areas of the throat. However, deeper regions may require specialised tests for accurate detection.
What is the difference between oral screening and biopsy?
Oral screening is used to detect suspicious changes in the mouth. A biopsy confirms the diagnosis by examining tissue under a microscope.
What does it mean if you can’t open your mouth fully?
Limited jaw movement can signal underlying problems. An oral screening can help identify the cause early.