Oral cancer is a serious yet often overlooked disease that affects thousands of Americans each year. However, early detection is key to increasing survival rates and improving treatment outcomes. That’s why at Marion Smile Center in Zelienople, PA, Dr. Mark A. Marion and his team prioritize your oral health by offering thorough oral cancer screenings at every dental exam. In this article, let’s review important facts about oral cancer, risk factors, and prevention tips, as well as details about the advanced screening options available at our practice.
Understanding Oral Cancer: The Facts and Statistics
Oral cancer also known as oropharyngeal cancer includes cancers of the mouth, tongue, lips, throat, and other surrounding tissues. It can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, nearly 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer each year, and one person dies from it every hour in the United States. The five-year survival rate is about 65%, but when detected early, the survival rate rises significantly.
Another staggering statistic comes from the American Cancer Society, which reports that about 40% of oral cancers are not diagnosed until later stages, making treatment more difficult, requiring disfiguring surgeries such as removal of the jaw, tongue, voice box, etc., and reducing survival chances. These numbers highlight the importance of regular screenings to detect signs of oral cancer as early as possible.
Who is Most at Risk for Oral Cancer?
While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain groups are at a higher risk due to lifestyle choices, genetic predisposition, and other health factors.
The most common risk factors include:
- Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless tobacco, chewing tobacco, and dips significantly increase the risk of developing oral cancer.
- Alcohol Consumption: Excessive or daily alcohol use is a known risk factor, and when combined with tobacco, the risk multiplies. The threshold used is more than 1 alcoholic drink per day.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: HPV, particularly HPV-16, has been linked to increasing cases of throat and oral cancers. The exact reason for this increase is still being researched, but current expert medical opinion is that it is related to cultural shifts in sexual behaviors, including more sexual partners, unprotected sex, and increased frequency of oral sex. Per the CDC, HPV is thought to cause 60% to 70% of oropharyngeal cancers in the United States. Since there is no cure to eradicate the HPV virus once contracted, our best defense is prevention by vaccinating our youth prior to any sexual activity. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting the HPV vaccination series between ages 9 and 12.
- Excessive Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun increases the risk of lip cancer.
- Age and Gender: Men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer compared to women, and the majority of cases occur in individuals over 40.
- Poor Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to a higher risk of developing oral cancer.
- History of Cancer: Individuals who have had cancer before may be at a greater risk of developing oral cancer.
- Family History of Oral Cancer: A genetic predisposition can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer.
- Chemotherapy: Previous cancer treatments like chemotherapy can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to oral cancer.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes may have a higher risk of developing oral cancer due to immune system complications and prolonged inflammation.
- COVID-19 virus interrupted routine preventative dental services such as dental cleanings. This led to a decline in Americans’ oral hygiene and potentially contributed to an increase in oral cancer risk factors. Some State Governments mandated dental office closures and lockdowns which resulted in a decrease in dental visits, which in turn led to a decline in HPV vaccination rates, especially among adolescents. Medical experts’ current thinking is that most oral cancer is being caused by the HPV virus.
Dr. Mark Marion’s Comprehensive Oral Cancer Screening
At Marion Smile Center, Dr. Mark Marion performs a thorough oral cancer screening at every dental exam.
His screening process includes:
- Visual Examination: Checking the mouth, lips, tongue, gums, throat, and the insides of the cheeks for any discoloration, sores, or other abnormalities.
- Physical Examination: Gently feeling the throat, jawline, and neck for any lumps, bumps, or swelling that may indicate a problem.
- Review of Symptoms: Asking about any unusual pain, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness that has persisted.
This quick, non-invasive screening helps detect oral cancer early. Dr. Marion has found many suspicious lesions, leading to biopsies and, when needed, referrals for surgery. When asked about whether he too has noticed an increase in oral cancers in his patients, Dr. Marion stated, “I have examined more patients in the past few years with abnormal lesions and suspicious bumps than at any other time in my career. It concerns me. So, the providers in our Marion Smile Center practice recently attended a weekend course at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, my alma mater, to have the latest information on identifying this devastating cancer.”
Advanced Screening with VELscope Technology
For patients who want an extra layer of protection, Marion Smile Center offers VELscope oral cancer screening for a small additional fee. The VELscope is an advanced screening tool that uses fluorescence visualization to detect tissue abnormalities that may not be visible to the naked eye. With the aid of this technology, we can now see deeper into the tissues than with just our eyes. Look below at the side-by-side comparison on how our VELscope technology “lights up” this patient’s cancerous tumor more so than with just the naked eye. This patient’s oral cancer was diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma, the most common oral cancer. Treatment typically includes surgery and radiation.
Why is the VELscope Important?
- It allows for the earliest possible detection of abnormal tissue changes before they turn into cancer.
- The exam is quick, painless, and non-invasive—it only takes a few minutes.
- Studies show that VELscope technology can detect cancerous and precancerous tissues much sooner than traditional exams (Source).
- The VELscope uses a special blue-light technology that causes healthy tissue to fluoresce while abnormal tissue appears dark, making it easier to identify potential issues.
If you are at higher risk for oral cancer, choosing a VELscope screening at your next appointment could make a significant difference in early diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, we recommend oral cancer screenings with VELscope technology starting at age 18, and every other year for our patients who are at normal risk for the disease. For our patients that are high risk (smokers and other tobacco users, diabetics, over age 40, those with or suspect they have HPV virus, drink more than 1 alcoholic drink per day, history of cancer, Chemotherapy), we recommend annual oral cancer screenings with VELscope. 
A: Appearance of lesion under normal light vs B: VELscope. Histopathology revealed a.
Click here for more info on VELscope Clinical Studies.
Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Oral Cancer
The good news is that there are steps you can take to lower your risk of developing oral cancer:
- Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use: Eliminating tobacco from your life dramatically reduces your chances of developing oral cancer.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: Drinking in moderation, or cutting it out entirely, helps lower your risk.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins that can help protect against cancer.
- Use Sunscreen and Lip Balm with SPF: Protecting your lips from harmful UV rays reduces your risk of lip cancer.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing daily, along with regular dental check-ups, can help maintain oral health and allow for early detection of any abnormalities.
- Get Vaccinated for HPV: The HPV vaccine can help protect against strains of HPV that are linked to oral cancer.
- Schedule Regular Oral Cancer Screenings: Early detection is key to successful treatment—don’t skip your screenings!
- Perform a Monthly Self-Exam: Take a few minutes each month to check your lips, gums, mouth, cheeks, tongue, and throat for any unusual lumps, bumps, sores, or discoloration. If you notice anything concerning, schedule an appointment with your dentist or doctor immediately.
Common Oral Cancer Signs and Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of oral cancer early can make all the difference in the success of the treatment. While some symptoms may be subtle, nevertheless, it’s important to be aware of any changes in your mouth and throat.
Common signs of oral cancer include:
- Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal within two weeks.
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
- Pain or tenderness in the mouth, lips, throat, or jaw.
- Lumps or bumps inside the mouth, throat, or on the neck.
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing, or feeling like something is caught in your throat.
- Changes in your voice or hoarseness that lasts longer than a few weeks.
- Numbness or swelling in the mouth, jaw, or neck area.
- Chronic sore throat that doesn’t go away.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist for an evaluation, as early detection increases the chances of successful treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Oral Cancer Screenings
How often should I get an oral cancer screening?
With the rising prevalence of oral cancer, early detection through routine screenings is crucial. The ADA recommends annual oral cancer screenings for all adults and every six months for high-risk individuals.
Does the VELscope exam hurt?
No, the VELscope screening is completely painless, non-invasive, and only takes a few minutes to complete.
Can I get oral cancer if I don’t smoke?
Yes! While smoking is a major risk factor, many cases of oral cancer occur in non-smokers. HPV infection, excessive alcohol use, and genetics also contribute to oral cancer risk.
What happens if Dr. Marion finds something abnormal?
If Dr. Marion finds any suspicious areas, he may recommend further evaluation or a specialist referral for a biopsy.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening in Southwestern PA
At Marion Smile Center, we prioritize your oral health and overall well-being. If you haven’t had an oral cancer screening recently, or if you’re due for your regular dental exam, now is the perfect time to schedule your appointment. Call Marion Smile Center at 724-452-4300 to reserve time for your screening or add the VELscope advanced screening to your next visit. To request an appointment and have our friendly team reach out to you, click here.
Taking a few minutes for an oral cancer screening could save your life. Don’t wait—prioritize your health this Oral Cancer Awareness Month! If you’re interested in learning more about dental services offered at Marion Smile Center in Zelienople, PA, click here.
