Oral cancer screening in [city], [st]

Oral cancer screening in [city], [st] is a quick, noninvasive exam designed to spot early changes in the mouth and throat. At [practice_name], this screening is part of routine dental visits to help identify areas that may require closer evaluation. Early detection can lead to simpler treatment and better outcomes.

Oral cancer screening explained

An oral cancer exam is a focused check of the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, floor of the mouth, palate, tonsil area, and throat. The goal is to find sores, color changes, thickened tissue, or lumps that could indicate precancerous or cancerous changes. The screening itself does not diagnose cancer; instead, it identifies spots that may need further testing or a biopsy.

Areas checked during the exam

• The lips and cheeks are inspected for sores, crusts, or color changes.
• The gums and palate are reviewed for patches and surface changes.
• The tongue and floor of the mouth are examined on all sides for ulcers or thickening.
• The tonsils and back of the throat are viewed for asymmetry or redness.
• The jawline and neck are gently palpated to feel for enlarged lymph nodes.

How oral cancer screening can help you

• Early detection can improve treatment choices and survival rates.
• The exam is quick, painless, and adds only a few minutes to a checkup.
• Regular screening provides a baseline to compare future changes.
• Findings guide timely referrals for diagnostic testing when needed.
• Personalized risk review supports prevention for tobacco, alcohol, and HPV-related risks.

How the screening works

Screening uses a step-by-step approach so nothing important is missed. Here is what typically happens during a visit.

• Step 1: Your health history is reviewed, including tobacco use, alcohol intake, sun exposure to the lips, prior lesions, and HPV risk.
• Step 2: A thorough visual exam checks all oral tissues under good lighting and with mirrors or retractors.
• Step 3: Gentle palpation assesses the tongue, cheeks, jaw, and neck for nodules or tenderness.
• Step 4: Adjunctive tools may be used, such as special lights or dyes, to highlight suspicious areas.
• Step 5: Photos or notes document any findings, and a recheck may be planned to monitor changes.
• Step 6: If a lesion appears concerning, a biopsy or specialist referral is recommended to confirm a diagnosis.

What to expect at your visit

The screening is comfortable and takes only a few minutes. There is no fasting or special preparation. It can be done at the same time as a cleaning or checkup. You may be asked to remove dentures or partials so all tissues can be examined. If you have noticed a sore that will not heal or a persistent throat sensation, mention it so it can be assessed.

Signs to watch for between visits

• A sore, ulcer, or lump that does not heal in two weeks.
• Red, white, or mixed red-and-white patches on oral tissues.
• Numbness, tingling, or pain without a clear cause.
• Persistent hoarseness, sore throat, or difficulty swallowing.
• Ear pain on one side or a change in how your teeth fit together.

Risk factors to discuss

• Current or past tobacco use of any type.
• Frequent or heavy alcohol consumption.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) exposure, especially HPV-16.
• Excess sun exposure to the lips without protection.
• Age over 40, a history of oral cancer, or a weakened immune system.