Oral cancer screenings are an important part of routine dental care. When changes in the mouth, throat, lips, or tongue are found early, treatment is often more effective and less invasive.

During your dental exam, we look for signs of abnormal tissue, sores that are not healing, red or white patches, lumps, swelling, changes in the tongue or cheeks, and other areas of concern. We also evaluate the jaw, neck, and surrounding tissues for anything unusual.

Many early changes are painless and easy to miss at home. Regular dental visits give our team the
opportunity to notice small changes before they become more serious. If we find something suspicious, we will talk with you about the next step, which may include monitoring the area, taking photos, or referring you to a specialist for further evaluation.

You should let us know if you notice any of the following:

• A sore in the mouth that does not heal
• A lump, thickened area, or swelling
• Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, cheeks, or palate
• Unexplained bleeding, numbness, or pain
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the tongue or jaw
• A persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or feeling that something is caught in your throat
• Changes in the way your dentures or bite fit

Tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, and certain HPV-related infections can increase the risk of oral and throat cancers. However, oral cancer can occur even in people without obvious risk factors, which is why regular screening matters.

An oral cancer screening is quick, comfortable, and included as part of your dental exam. It is one more way we help protect not only your smile, but your overall health.