What Does an Oral Cancer Screening Check For?

During your screening, we evaluate:

  • Red or white patches
  • Unexplained sores
  • Lumps or thickened tissue
  • Changes in the tongue
  • Abnormal tissue changes
  • Swelling in the mouth, jaw, or neck
  • Areas that may require monitoring or further evaluation

Most screenings take only a few minutes and are completely painless.

Who Should Have Oral Cancer Screenings?

Everyone benefits from routine screenings, but they are especially important for people who:

  • Use tobacco products
  • Drink alcohol regularly
  • Have a history of HPV
  • Spend significant time in the sun
  • Are over age 40
  • Have a family history of cancer

Even patients without risk factors can develop oral cancer, which is why routine screenings matter.