Oral Cancer Exam San Francisco CAOral cancer is a serious illness that can be fatal if not diagnosed on time. This is where an oral cancer exam in San Francisco, CA, comes in. At San Francisco Dental Arts, we take our patient's every need seriously and offer a variety of management options to help them. Dr. Stanley Siu emphasizes the importance of your comfort in matters of oral health, especially when undergoing an oral cancer exam in San Francisco, CA. How Important is Oral Cancer Screening?Most people are unaware that oral cancer is able to manifest in various forms and can occur on the tongue, in the gums, and in other areas both inside and outside the mouth. The risk factors for developing oral cancer are well known and include tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, or having a family history of oral cancer. The major challenge with oral cancer is identifying it on time since this type of cancer tends to progress without noticeable symptoms, especially during the early stages. This is why regular screenings conducted by dental professionals play a pivotal role in early detection. During routine dental check-ups, our dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth and surrounding areas for any abnormalities or signs of oral cancer. It wouldn't be wrong to say that an oral cancer exam in San Francisco, CA, can save your life. Types of Oral CancersAn oral cancer exam involves visual inspection palpation of the oral tissues and may include advanced technologies such as fluorescent screening devices. The following are some of the types of oral cancers to look out for. Squamous Cell CarcinomaSquamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of oral cancer, accounting for the majority of cases. It usually occurs on the lips, tongue, and the floor of the mouth. This type of cancer originates in the thin, flat cells (squamous cells) that line the oral cavity. Verrucous CarcinomaVerrucous carcinoma is a subtype of squamous cell carcinoma. It is a slow-growing and less aggressive form of oral cancer. This type often presents as a wart-like growth and is typically found on the buccal mucosa, gums, or tongue. Mucoepidermoid CarcinomaMucoepidermoid carcinoma is a malignancy that arises from the salivary glands in the oral cavity. It can occur in various locations, including the palate, gums, and tongue, and is characterized by a mix of mucous and epidermoid (squamous) cells. Adenoid Cystic CarcinomaAdenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare but aggressive form of oral cancer that typically affects the minor salivary glands. It tends to grow slowly and has a tendency to invade nerves, making complete surgical removal challenging. LymphomasLymphomas are cancers that affect the lymphatic system, and they can occur in the oral cavity. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the most common type of lymphoma associated with the oral cavity, often presenting as painless swelling. MelanomaMelanoma is a type of skin cancer that can also develop in the oral cavity, particularly on the lips. It is important to monitor any changes in the color or size of pigmented lesions on the lips and seek prompt evaluation. Oral Cancer Exam in San FranciscoGetting regular oral cancer screenings in San Francisco, CA, is a great way to identify the type of oral cancer you may have and get the necessary treatment before it metastasizes. Contact us today to schedule a dental exam and oral cancer screening. Our office is proud to offer otherpreventative services, including dental cleanings, night guards, and more! |