Oral Cancer

What are the tests for oral cancer?

A Answers (4)

  • Checking for signs of oral cancer is part of a regular dental checkup as your dentist can easily examine your oral tissues by looking at your lips and inside your mouth. He or she will also carefully check your gums, the inside of your cheeks and your tongue (the sides and underneath). Also, the dentist will look at the roof and floor of your mouth and inspect your face, neck, lips and mouth to look for any signs of cancer.

    Your dentist will not be able to diagnose cancer during an examination. Oral cancer can be diagnosed only with a biopsy, when a sample of tissue in the area is removed and examined under a microscope. However, your dentist can identify suspicious-looking areas or growths that may need further evaluation.
  • Your doctor may order one or more of the following tests:
  • A , Dentist, answered
    Very often cancerous lesions in the oral cavity can be undetected by the patient. Changes in the tissue are difficult to see when they are in the back of the throat, cheek or tongue. An oral exam for changes in the surrounding tissues should be performed by a dentist during your schedule maintenance appointments. A sample of irregular tissue cells must be obtain as a biopsy to confirm if the cells are normal or cancerous. Microscopic tests are completed to determine if the cells are truly cancerous.   
  • A answered
    Your dentist will conduct routine tests for oral cancer during a dental exam. The dentist will check for unusual patches or mouth ulcers, particularly ulcers that are red or white. If there is an unusual red or white patch or sore, the dentist will refer you for further testing, or order a biopsy that tests for cancerous cells. Some oral cancer screening tests include having a dye applied to the inside of your mouth tissue or rinsing with a blue dye before the dentist checks your mouth, and are usually done for those at high risk for oral cancer.
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