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Oral Cancer Screenings: A Simple Exam That Can Save Lives
Oral cancer is a serious condition that can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, and other areas of the mouth. When detected early, it is highly treatable. That’s why routine oral cancer screenings are an essential part of your dental visits.
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless exam performed during your regular dental checkup. Your dentist will carefully evaluate your mouth, gums, tongue, and surrounding tissues for any abnormalities or early warning signs.
This includes checking for:
- • Unusual sores or lesions
- • Red or white patches
- • Lumps, thickened areas, or swelling
- • Changes in tissue texture or color
Who Should Be Screened?
Everyone can benefit from routine oral cancer screenings, but certain factors may increase risk, including:
- • Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
- • Frequent alcohol consumption
- • HPV (human papillomavirus) exposure
- • Prolonged sun exposure (especially for lip cancer)
- • Age 40 and older
Even without these risk factors, screenings are still important as oral cancer can develop in anyone. If you experience any of the following symptoms persistently, schedule a screening.
- • Persistent mouth sores
- • Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- • Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- • Numbness in the mouth or lips
- • A lump or thickened area in the cheek
- • Ear pain without infection
Because oral cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms, regular screenings allow early detection when treatment is most effective. With consistent screenings, our dental team can identify potential concerns early and guide you toward the appropriate next steps if needed. Staying consistent with oral cancer screenings is a simple, proactive way to safeguard your health and gain peace of mind.
OralID® uses a proven, optically based technology called “fluorescence technology.” OralID® fluorescence technology uses a blue light (435–460 nm) that provides the clinician an aid in visualization of oral mucosal abnormalities, such as oral cancer and pre-cancer
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