An oral cancer screening is a visual and physical check of areas such as the face, neck, lips, mouth and back of the throat for signs that may need further evaluation. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) says a regular dental checkup is an opportunity for this exam, which is painless and takes only a few minutes. A screening looks for possible signs; it does not by itself diagnose cancer.
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
A dentist or dental hygienist checks the face and neck, lips and mouth, then looks at the back of the throat. The exam can include looking at the tongue, gums and other mouth tissues for changes such as a sore, lump, thickened area, or red or white patch. The clinician may also feel parts of the face and neck for unusual areas.
If something appears unusual, the next step may be additional tests or a referral for further evaluation. An unusual finding is not the same as a cancer diagnosis; screening identifies signs that may need follow-up.
Why screening and follow-up matter
Oral cancers can affect the mouth and the back of the throat. NIDCR notes that early detection is important because oral cancer can spread quickly. Screening is one way to look for possible signs during a routine dental visit, but it cannot guarantee that cancer will be found or ruled out.
NIDCR advises seeing a dentist or doctor if symptoms such as a mouth sore, red or white patch, persistent sore throat, hoarseness, neck lump, difficulty swallowing, or numbness in the mouth last more than two weeks. This general guidance is not a diagnosis; a dental or medical professional can assess an individual concern.
Questions to ask at your next checkup
- Will an oral cancer screening be included in my checkup?
- Which areas will you examine?
- If you notice something unusual, what follow-up do you recommend?
- Should I seek assessment for a change I have noticed, and which professional should I contact?
For more detail on symptoms, screening and diagnosis, see NIDCR’s oral cancer information. To ask about a dental checkup in Mesa, visit Mesa Dental Home or view the Mesa Dental Home Google Business Profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an oral cancer screening painful?
NIDCR describes the oral cancer examination as painless and says it takes only a few minutes.
What areas are checked during an oral cancer screening?
A dentist or dental hygienist checks the face, neck, lips, mouth and back of the throat for possible signs. The exam may include looking for unusual sores, lumps, thickened areas, or red or white patches.
Does an unusual finding mean I have oral cancer?
No. A screening looks for possible signs and does not diagnose cancer. If something unusual is found, the dentist may recommend additional tests or a referral for further evaluation.
When should I ask a professional about a mouth or throat symptom?
NIDCR advises seeing a dentist or doctor if symptoms such as a sore or lump in the mouth, a red or white patch, persistent sore throat, hoarseness, a neck lump, difficulty swallowing, or numbness in the mouth last more than two weeks.
Where is Mesa Dental Home located?
Mesa Dental Home is at 849 North Dobson Rd, Unit 108, Mesa, AZ 85201.
Business features on this publication may be part of marketing services. A business reference does not mean the article is a personal visit, an independent review, or written or reviewed by the featured clinician.