The screening involves closely observing your lips, inner cheeks, tongue, gums, and throat for abnormal areas. We also gently check the mouth and neck by touch to detect any concerns. It’s a fast, comfortable exam that takes only a few minutes.

Early oral cancer can exist without noticeable signs. Preventive screenings help us identify potential problems early, improving outcomes.

Most patients are screened for oral cancer twice yearly during standard dental checkups. If risk factors like tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, or HPV are present, screenings may be scheduled more often. Call us immediately if sores do not heal within two weeks, lumps develop in the mouth or neck, patches appear on oral tissues, hoarseness persists, or numbness occurs.

We use advanced light sources and magnification to increase visibility and identify early tissue changes. Special screening lights may also assist in detecting abnormalities beyond normal sight.