Oral Cancer Screenings by Local Dentist

Oral cancer involves abnormal cell growth that may develop in the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, or throat. While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain habits and health factors may increase risk over time.

Common risk factors include:

• Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco
• Frequent alcohol consumption
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Extended sun exposure, especially to the lips
• Family history of cancer
• Weakened immune system or poor nutrition

Because early stages often cause little or no discomfort, regular screenings play a critical role in early detection.

Oral cancer can progress quietly, making preventive screenings an important part of routine dental care. During regular checkups, oral cancer screenings help identify changes in the mouth and surrounding tissues before symptoms become serious.

Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and long term health.

You should schedule an evaluation if you notice any of the following:

• Sores in the mouth or on the lips that do not heal
• Red or white patches on oral tissues
• Lumps, swelling, or thickened areas in the mouth, jaw, or neck
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the tongue or jaw
• Ongoing numbness or unexplained oral pain
• Changes in voice or a sore throat that does not resolve
• Unexplained bleeding or sudden weight loss

These symptoms do not always indicate cancer, but they should be evaluated promptly.

An oral cancer screening is a straightforward part of your dental visit and is completed comfortably and efficiently.

Visual Examination

Your dentist examines the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and the floor and roof of the mouth for discoloration, sores, swelling, or unusual tissue changes.

Physical Evaluation

The jaw, neck, and lymph nodes are gently checked for lumps, firmness, or irregularities beneath the surface.

Tissue Assessment

When necessary, special lighting or diagnostic tools may be used to help identify subtle changes that are not visible under normal light.

If any areas of concern are found, next steps such as monitoring, imaging, or referral for further evaluation will be discussed.

Oral cancer is highly treatable when identified early. Routine screenings are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your long term oral and overall health, even if you do not have symptoms or known risk factors.