Oral Cancer

“I’ve never smoked a day in my life, how did I get oral cancer?”

What is oral cancer and what does it look like? 

Oral cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can develop in various parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth, and the back of the throat. It often starts subtly, making it difficult to detect in its early stages without regular dental check-ups. One of the most common warning signs of oral cancer is a sore or lesion that doesn’t heal within two weeks. These sores may appear white, red, or a mix of both, and can sometimes be mistaken for harmless ulcers or cold sores. However, they tend to persist longer than typical mouth irritations. In addition to unusual sores, oral cancer may present as thickened areas of tissue, rough spots, lumps, or small bumps in the mouth. You might notice unexplained bleeding, chronic hoarseness, or a persistent sore throat. The texture of the affected area may feel velvety or rough, and the skin could appear discoloured, with white or dark red patches that don't go away. Some people may experience difficulty swallowing, numbness, or the sensation that something is caught in their throat. It’s essential to stay vigilant and recognize any changes in your mouth that don't resolve on their own. If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they persist, make sure to consult your dental professional as soon as possible for further evaluation. Early detection can save lives.

How are possible cancerous areas detected?

Dentists and hygienists use several methods to detect oral cancer, aiming for early diagnosis when treatment is most effective. During dental exams, a visual inspection is the first step, where the dentist or hygienist checks for abnormal sores, lesions, lumps, or discoloured areas in the mouth. They also palpate (feel) the soft tissues of the mouth, throat, and neck to detect any unusual lumps or thickened areas. In some cases, specialised screening tools, such as fluorescence or tissue staining, help highlight abnormal tissue that might not be visible to the naked eye. Another advanced technique involves a brush biopsy, where a small brush collects cells from a suspicious area for further analysis. If any suspicious areas are found, the dentist may recommend a traditional biopsy, where a small tissue sample is sent to a lab to check for cancerous cells. Regular screenings, especially for patients with higher risk factors, such as tobacco or alcohol use, are crucial in the early detection of oral cancer.

What are oral cancer risk factors? 

Several factors can increase the risk of developing oral cancer. One of the most significant is the use of tobacco in any form—cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, or even vaping—all of which expose the mouth and throat to harmful chemicals that can damage cells and lead to cancer. Alcohol use is another major risk factor, particularly in combination with tobacco, as it further irritates the tissues in the mouth and throat. Excessive sun exposure, especially on the lips, can also raise the risk of lip cancer. Another growing concern is the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly certain strains like HPV-16, which are linked to cancers at the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils. Poor oral hygiene and a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables, which are rich in cancer-protective antioxidants, can also contribute to oral cancer risk. Additionally, age plays a role, as most cases of oral cancer occur in people over the age of 50 and genetics can also factor in, as a family history of cancer may increase one’s susceptibility. Lastly, having a weakened immune system, whether due to illness or certain medications, may make it harder for the body to fight off early-stage cancer cells. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take steps to reduce their likelihood of developing oral cancer and highlight the importance of regular dental check-ups for early detection.

Oral Cancer Screenings at Toothlife

At Toothlife Studios, every single patient receives an oral cancer screening at every appointment no matter the patient’s risk level. This is done routinely by Dr. Michelle and the dental hygienists through an intraoral and extraoral exam. 

This exam is performed at the beginning of the appointment when we feel your head and neck for any unusual lumps and bumps, followed by a thorough examination inside your mouth for any unusual looking spots. We may also use a screening tool that uses fluorescents to highlight any unusual areas. 

What tools do you use at Toothlife Studio? 

A VELscope is a specialised device used in dentistry to help identify oral abnormalities that may not be visible to the naked eye. It uses a technology called fluorescence visualisation to detect changes in the tissues of the mouth, such as lesions or abnormalities that could indicate conditions like oral cancer or precancerous lesions.

Here’s how it works:

1. Fluorescence Technology: The VELscope emits a specific wavelength of light that causes the tissues in the mouth to fluoresce. Healthy tissues usually appear a certain color, while abnormal tissues often have different fluorescence patterns.

2. Examination Process: During a dental exam, the dental hygienist or dentist will use the VELscope to shine the light on the patient’s oral tissues. They’ll look through the device to observe the fluorescence patterns.

3. Detection: Areas that don’t fluoresce as expected may indicate potential problems. The device helps to highlight these areas, making it easier to spot abnormal tissues early.

4. Follow-Up: If the VELscope detects suspicious areas, the dental professional may recommend further investigation, such as a biopsy, to determine the nature of the abnormality.

The VELscope is a valuable tool for early detection of oral health issues, potentially improving outcomes by catching problems early when they are easier to treat.

Digital Photography is a big part of the practice, from new patient photos to monitoring things like suspicious lesions or pathology. We use digital photography to help monitor or send a referral to. 

At Toothlife Studio, we prioritise comprehensive patient care and the early detection of potential oral health issues. For cases requiring a biopsy, we regularly refer our patients to esteemed specialists at Sunnybrook and Crescent Oral Surgery. These renowned facilities are known for their expert handling of biopsies and diagnostic procedures. By partnering with these top-notch surgical centres, we ensure that our patients receive precise, timely, and effective care for any abnormalities detected during their routine examinations. Our collaboration with Sunnybrook and Crescent Oral Surgery underscores our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of oral health and patient well-being.