The goal of an oral cancer screening is to find mouth cancer or precancerous lesions early when it is more likely to be removed or cured. Oral cancer screenings are recommended for patients who are at high risk of oral cancer. Some factors that contribute to oral cancer include the use of any tobacco; heavy alcohol use; previous oral cancer diagnosis; and excessive sun exposure that could lead to lip cancer.
What to Expect During Your Oral Cancer Screening
For patients who present a high risk for oral cancer, the dentist will recommend an oral cancer screening during a routine exam to determine if any cancer or precancerous lesions are present. We understand the anxiety and uncertainty patients may experience before or during an oral cancer screening. Our dentist takes great care in explaining the process and what a patient can expect during the exam.
In general, our dentist will examine a patient’s mouth for white or red patches or mouth sores. He will also feel the tissue in a patient’s mouth for lumps or abnormalities. If a patient wears dentures, they will need to be removed to examine the mouth properly.
The screening is simple but effective in helping with early detection. If the dentist discovers any signs of possible cancer or precancerous lesions, he may recommend a follow-up appointment or biopsy to determine if cancer cells are present. We desire to properly care for patients by aiding them in understanding all aspects of their oral health.
If you think your lifestyle may lead to oral cancer, please contact our office to request a consultation to find out if oral cancer screening is right for you. Our goal is to help patients in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles improve their oral health and confident smiles for a lifetime.
