“Where every smile is celebrated.”
Oral cancer screening is a quick, painless examination that can detect cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth early, when treatment is most effective. It's an important part of every dental checkup.
During an oral cancer screening, we examine your lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, tonsils, and the back of your throat. We also check your face, neck, and jaw for any unusual lumps or swelling.
We look for sores, red or white patches, thickened tissue, or any other abnormalities that could indicate precancerous conditions or cancer. If we find anything concerning, we'll discuss next steps.
The screening takes just a few minutes and is completely painless. It's included as part of your regular dental exam at no additional cost.
While everyone should be screened, some factors increase risk.
Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff all significantly increase oral cancer risk.
Regular heavy drinking increases risk, especially when combined with tobacco use.
Human papillomavirus, particularly HPV-16, is linked to oropharyngeal cancers.
Excessive sun exposure increases risk of lip cancer. Use SPF lip balm.
If you've had oral cancer before, regular screening is especially important.
Risk increases with age, though HPV-related cancers are increasingly common in younger adults.
Contact us if you notice any of these symptoms lasting more than two weeks.
We perform an oral cancer screening at every routine dental exam, typically every six months. If you have risk factors, we may recommend more frequent screenings.
If we notice anything unusual, we'll discuss it with you and may recommend a follow-up visit to monitor the area. In some cases, we may refer you to a specialist for a biopsy.
Not at all. The screening is a visual and physical examination that takes just a few minutes and causes no discomfort.
When detected early, oral cancer has a high survival rate. This is why regular screenings are so important, as they allow us to catch any problems in their earliest, most treatable stages.
Yes. While tobacco use is a major risk factor, oral cancer can affect anyone. HPV-related oral cancers are increasing, particularly in non-smokers.
No. Oral cancer screening is included as part of your regular dental examination at no extra charge.
Schedule your dental checkup today. Early detection could save your life.
Schedule Appointment