Oral cancer screening in [city], [st]
[practice_name] provides oral cancer screening in [city], [st] to help identify tissue changes early, when treatment is most effective. This quick exam is a routine part of preventive dental care and can be added to a regular checkup. Patients in [city], Wisconsin often ask what the screening looks for, how it works, and what happens if something unusual is found. This page explains the process in clear steps so you know what to expect.
Oral cancer screening explained
An oral cancer screening exam is a visual and physical assessment of the lips, cheeks, tongue, floor and roof of the mouth, gums, and the back of the throat. The neck and jaw areas are also checked for lumps or tenderness. The goal is early detection of oral cancer or precancerous changes before symptoms become obvious. Common questions include what is oral cancer screening, how does oral cancer screening work, and whether special tools are used. Dentists may use a small light, magnification, or a dye to highlight areas that need closer evaluation, but most screenings rely on trained eyes and gentle palpation.
How oral cancer screening can help
- Early detection increases the chance of successful treatment and can reduce the need for extensive procedures.
- The exam is brief, noninvasive, and can be performed during a regular checkup.
- Screening can identify oral cancer signs and symptoms that are easy to miss at home, such as subtle color changes or small sores that do not heal.
- Patients learn about oral cancer risk factors and steps to lower risk.
- Findings guide timely referrals for diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy, when needed.
How the screening works
The visit begins with a short discussion of your health history and risk factors, including tobacco use, alcohol use, sun exposure to the lips, human papillomavirus (HPV), and any persistent mouth sores or throat symptoms. The oral cavity is then examined under good lighting. The tongue is gently moved to view all surfaces. The cheeks, gums, and palate are checked, and the lips are examined inside and out. The provider palpates the jawline, neck, and under the chin to feel for swollen or firm areas.
Some offices add adjunctive methods, such as special lights or rinses, to highlight abnormal tissue. These tools do not diagnose cancer. They simply point to areas that may need additional attention. If an area looks suspicious, photographs and measurements are recorded, and a follow-up or referral is arranged.
What to expect before and after your visit
No special preparation is needed. Brushing and flossing beforehand improves visibility, but it is not required. The screening takes only a few minutes and is painless. You may feel gentle pressure during palpation of the cheeks, tongue, and neck.
If everything appears normal, the recommendation is to continue routine checkups with periodic oral cancer screenings. If an abnormality is noted, you will be advised on next steps. Options may include watching the area for two weeks, returning for a recheck, or seeing an oral surgeon or specialist for a biopsy. A biopsy is the only way to diagnose cancer. Clear instructions are provided so you know when to call if a sore does not heal or if new symptoms appear.
Common signs to watch for at home
- Sores, ulcers, or red or white patches that do not heal within two weeks.
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth or persistent sore throat.
- Changes in how teeth fit together or difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- Numbness, a lump, or thickening in the cheek, lip, or neck.
- Hoarseness or voice changes that persist.
Remember that many mouth changes are not cancer, but anything that lasts longer than two weeks should be checked.