Oral Cancer Screening in Germantown, MD

There is no standard screening for oral cancer, so every dental office may have a different testing method. Screening may also be more comprehensive based on your specific dental condition and medical history. During your routine exam, our dentist will provide a basic visual check and let you know about any concerns. If there are concerns, our dentist will recommend follow-up testing.

The most common oral cancer tests include biopsy, cytology, and stains or dyes. Biopsies are used to collect cells from inside unusual lesions. The cells are then observed with a microscope. Cytology uses a stick, brush, or piece of cotton to collect cells from the surface of the lips, tongue, and other parts of the mouth. Stains and dyes are either blue or fluorescent colors that cause abnormal tissue to have a different appearance than normal, healthy tissue.

Diagnostic imaging tests and specialist referral may also be necessary to examine abnormalities. Some diagnostic imaging tests include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans, and x-rays. Abnormal tissue can be identified in these images because, like with stains and dyes, it will look different than healthy tissue. The medical team, which includes our dentist, will also provide a close examination of your throat and nose. This is because cancer can spread and affect the surrounding tissues.

Throughout the diagnostic process, we will discuss the many different oral cancer treatment options with you. For instance, some common treatments are specialized therapies and surgery. Therapies include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other targeted therapies. These destroy the cancer on a cellular level. Surgery may be needed to remove cancerous tissue or reconstruct tissues that have been warped or lost due to the oral cancer.