Vancouver Oral Cancer Screening & Detection

Early detection of oral cancer offers the best chance of survival. Studies have shown that only half of all patients diagnosed with oral cancer survive more than five years.

Oral cancer often starts as a tiny, unnoticed white or red spot or sore anywhere in the mouth. During oral cancer screening, we carefully examine the inside of your mouth and tongue for a flat, painless, white or red spot or a small sore. Although most of these are harmless, some are not. To ensure that a spot or sore is not dangerous, we may perform a simple test, such as a brush test, to collect cells from your mouth for laboratory analysis. If precancerous cells are found, the lesion can be surgically removed.

What Are The Symptoms Of Oral Cancer?

A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
A color change of your gums
A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area
Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue
A change in the way the teeth fit together

Risk factors:

Tobacco use
Alcohol use combined with smoking
Prolonged exposure to the sun (lip cancer)
If you are over the age of 40

Preventative measures:

Reduce or stop tobacco use
Reduce or stop alcohol use, especially if combined with smoking
Reduce sun exposure, or use a high SPF sunscreen
Have a diet high in fruits and vegetables

Oral Cancer Screening