An oral cancer screening is a quick, preventive examination designed to look for unusual changes in the lips, tongue, gums, throat, and other tissues of the mouth. Because some concerning changes may develop without causing pain or obvious symptoms, these screenings can be an important part of routine dental care.
At the Houston practice of Heather F. Fleschler, DDS, FAGD, LVIF, patients receive care from a dentist who earned the Academy of General Dentistry Fellowship Award, a distinction held by fewer than 7% of dentists nationwide. During an Oral Cancer Screening, Dr. Fleschler evaluates the mouth and surrounding tissues for changes that may warrant closer attention, helping patients know what to expect from this brief but valuable examination.
What Does an Oral Cancer Screening Include?
During a screening, the dentist visually examines areas inside and around the mouth for anything that appears unusual. This may include changes in color, texture, shape, or symmetry.
The examination may involve checking the:
- Lips and inner cheeks
- Gums and roof of the mouth
- Tongue, including the sides and underside
- Floor of the mouth
- Back of the throat
- Jaw and neck area
The dentist may also gently feel certain areas for lumps, swelling, tenderness, or other changes that are not visible.
What Kinds of Changes May Be Checked?
An oral cancer screening is designed to identify suspicious findings rather than diagnose cancer on the spot. Areas that may deserve further attention can include persistent sores, red or white patches, thickened tissue, unexplained lumps, or changes that do not heal normally.
Other symptoms, such as ongoing hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, numbness, or a sensation that something is caught in the throat, may also be worth discussing with a dentist.
Does an Oral Cancer Screening Hurt?
The screening itself is generally quick and noninvasive. It is typically performed as part of a regular dental examination and does not require needles, incisions, or recovery time.
If an unusual area is found, the next step may be monitoring it, scheduling a follow-up examination, or referring the patient for additional testing. Finding a suspicious change does not automatically mean oral cancer is present.
Make Oral Cancer Screening Part of Preventive Care in Houston, TX
Regular visits to the dentist make it possible to evaluate both the teeth and soft tissues for changes that may not be apparent to the patient. Oral cancer screening can be an important part of maintaining long-term oral health, particularly when combined with regular professional examinations.
Contact the practice of Heather F. Fleschler, DDS, FAGD, LVIF in Houston, TX, at 713-660-6500 to schedule a consultation and discuss preventive dental care.
