Oral Cancer Screening in Kitchener-Waterloo
When oral cancer is found early, treatment can be successful 82% of the time. Unfortunately, compared with many other cancers, the survival rate for oral cancer has not improved greatly over the last 30 years. One of the most important reasons is that oral cancer is often discovered at a later stage.
Because early detection is a key factor in successful treatment, regular oral cancer screenings are an important part of maintaining your overall health. At Westheights Dental Centre, we perform annual screening exams called ViziLite Plus, in conjunction with a routine head and neck examination. These screenings allow our dental team to look more closely for unusual changes or abnormalities in the mouth and surrounding tissues that may require further evaluation.
An oral cancer screening is quick, non-invasive, and typically performed as part of your regular dental visit. If we notice an area of concern, we can recommend appropriate follow-up or refer you to the appropriate specialist for further assessment.
Who Is at Risk?
Oral cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase your risk. You may benefit from regular oral cancer screening if you are:
- Age 40 or older
- 18–39 years old and have one or more of the following risk factors:
- Tobacco use
- Chronic alcohol consumption
- Oral HPV infection
- A history of oral cancer
It is important to remember that oral cancer does not only affect people with known risk factors. Approximately 25% of oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and have no other known risk factors. This is why regular screening is important for everyone, regardless of lifestyle or medical history.
What Does an Oral Cancer Screening Look For?
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist examines the mouth, tongue, gums, cheeks, lips, throat, neck, and other surrounding areas for unusual changes. These may include persistent sores, red or white patches, lumps, swelling, or other abnormalities.
Most changes in the mouth are not cancerous. However, identifying unusual areas early gives you the best opportunity for timely diagnosis and treatment when further investigation is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of oral cancer?+
Possible warning signs include a sore in the mouth or on the lips that does not heal, unexplained bleeding, persistent pain or numbness, a lump or thickened area, red or white patches, difficulty chewing or swallowing, changes in your voice, or a persistent sore throat. These symptoms can have many causes, but they should be evaluated if they persist.
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?+
For most patients, an oral cancer screening can be performed as part of your regular dental examination. Your dentist may recommend more frequent screenings if you have risk factors or a history of oral cancer.
Is an oral cancer screening painful?+
No. An oral cancer screening is generally quick and non-invasive. Your dentist will visually examine the tissues of your mouth, head, and neck and may use ViziLite Plus as an additional screening tool.
Does a screening diagnose oral cancer?+
No. A screening is designed to identify areas that may require further investigation. If an abnormal area is found, your dentist will discuss the appropriate next steps, which may include monitoring, additional testing, or referral to a specialist.
Why should I be screened if I don't have any risk factors?+
Oral cancer can occur in people who do not smoke and have no other recognized risk factors. Regular screenings help your dental team identify changes that you may not notice yourself, making early detection possible.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Regular oral cancer screening with ViziLite Plus is a quick, comfortable part of your routine dental visit. Contact Westheights Dental Centre to schedule your next examination and screening in Kitchener-Waterloo.
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