Why Oral Cancer Screening Matters

• Early stages often have no pain — making routine exams essential.
• High treatability when caught early — survival rates increase dramatically.
• Risk factors are common — tobacco use, alcohol consumption, HPV infection, and prolonged sun exposure can all contribute.
• Not just for older adults — oral cancer is being diagnosed in younger patients at increasing rates.

What We Look For During a Screening

Our dentists examine the oral tissues for:

• Unusual red or white patches
• Persistent sores or ulcers that don’t heal
• Lumps or thickened tissue in the mouth or neck
• Changes in tongue texture or mobility
• Difficulty swallowing or persistent hoarseness

We also review your medical history, lifestyle factors, and any symptoms you’ve noticed between visits.

How Screenings Fit into Your Dental Care

An oral cancer screening is painless and only takes a few minutes. We recommend one at least once a year, often during your routine dental cleaning and exam. If we detect anything suspicious, we may recommend a follow-up visit, advanced imaging, or referral for a biopsy.

Benefits of Screening at Davenport Dental

• Integration into regular preventive care for convenience
• Use of advanced dental technology for improved detection
• Comprehensive approach that considers your total oral health
• Education on self-checks and risk reduction strategies

FAQs: Oral Cancer Screening

Does oral cancer screening hurt?
No. The process is completely painless and non-invasive.

How often should I get screened?
At least annually, or more often if you have risk factors such as tobacco use or a family history of cancer.

If something abnormal is found, what happens next?
We’ll discuss our findings, answer your questions, and refer you to the appropriate specialist for further evaluation.