Oral cancer screenings can detect signs of cancer even before symptoms appear.
During the visual examination, Dr. Russo will inspect your face, lips, neck, and inside your mouth. He will be looking for any abnormalities, such as asymmetries, swellings, bumps, patches of color, ulcerations, or other unusual appearances. This step is crucial as it can detect early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions that you may not notice on your own.
Following the visual examination, Dr. Russo will then conduct a physical examination. This involves touching your head, cheeks, around your jaw, under your chin, and inside your mouth to feel for any unusual nodules or masses. The physical examination helps to detect any hidden signs of oral cancer that may not be visible to the naked eye.
In some cases, additional tests may be needed to help identify areas of abnormal cells in your mouth. Dr. Russo may use special lights or dyes to help distinguish normal tissues from abnormal ones. These tests are not invasive and provide further assurance that any potential issues are identified.
Approximately 53,000 people in the U.S. get oral cancer each year.