Oral Cancer Screening

Early detection saves lives. An oral cancer screening is a quick examination performed by our periodontists and implant specialists to identify suspicious lesions, discolorations, or abnormalities in your mouth that could indicate cancerous or precancerous conditions before symptoms develop.

At Rockland Dental Specialists, our team understands the importance of comprehensive oral health evaluations. Dr. David Peto, Dr. Shalom Mintz, and our skilled providers incorporate thorough oral cancer screenings into routine examinations, using their combined 24 years of experience in periodontics, implants, and endodontics to detect potential concerns early when treatment outcomes are most favorable.

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is a non-invasive procedure typically performed during your regular dental checkup. Our periodontists and implant specialists carefully examine all visible tissues in and around your mouth, looking for signs that require further evaluation.

During the screening, your provider will visually inspect your lips, gums, tongue, inner cheeks, roof and floor of your mouth, and throat. They’ll also gently palpate your jaw, neck, and under your chin to check for unusual lumps or masses. The entire process takes just a few minutes and causes no discomfort.

What We Look For

Our team searches for several warning signs during oral cancer screenings. Red or white patches, lumps, or sores that don’t heal within two weeks warrant closer attention. Changes in texture, such as rough or hardened areas, also raise concerns.

Leukoplakia, which appears as thick, whitish patches inside the cheeks, gums, or tongue, is commonly found in tobacco users and may sometimes be linked to oral cancer. Persistent pain, numbness, or difficulty swallowing can also signal problems that need evaluation.

How Often Should You Get Screened?

Most people should have an oral cancer screening at least once a year during routine dental visits. However, if you have risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, a history of oral cancer, or significant sun exposure to your lips, more frequent screenings may be recommended.

After periodontal surgery, you typically see patients every three months for the first year. These follow-up appointments provide excellent opportunities for regular oral cancer screenings. Your first follow-up appointment typically occurs within two weeks after periodontal surgery, and the second follow-up usually happens around eight to ten weeks post-surgery.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Oral Cancer?

Certain factors increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Tobacco users, including those who smoke cigarettes, cigars, or pipes and those who use smokeless tobacco, face a significantly higher risk. Heavy alcohol consumption also elevates your chances of developing oral cancer.

Age plays a role, too. Most oral cancer diagnoses occur in people over 40, though younger individuals can develop it as well. A family history of cancer, previous oral cancer diagnoses, and excessive sun exposure to the lips also increase risk.

Those with weakened immune systems or human papillomavirus (HPV) infections face an elevated risk. Regular screenings become especially important if you have any of these risk factors.

Why Early Detection Matters

Oral cancer caught in its earliest stages responds much better to treatment. When detected early, five-year survival rates for oral cancer improve dramatically. Early-stage cancers often require less aggressive treatment, which means better outcomes and quality of life.

Many oral cancers develop without obvious symptoms in their initial stages. Regular screenings catch these silent threats before they progress. What might seem like a minor irritation or small sore could be something more serious, and only a trained professional can make that determination.

Our periodontists and implant specialists have the training and experience to identify concerning signs during routine examinations. This expertise, combined with advanced diagnostic techniques, allows us to provide thorough screenings that protect your oral health.

What Happens If Something Is Found?

If our team identifies an area of concern during your screening, we’ll discuss the findings with you and recommend next steps. This might include scheduling a follow-up visit to monitor the area or referring you to a specialist for a biopsy.

A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample for laboratory analysis. While the word “biopsy” can sound frightening, many suspicious areas turn out to be benign. The only way to know for certain is through proper testing.

Our team works closely with oncologists and oral surgeons when referrals are necessary. We’ll coordinate your care and ensure you receive prompt attention for any concerning findings.

Connect With Rockland Dental Specialists for Comprehensive Oral Health Care

Regular oral cancer screenings are a simple yet powerful tool in protecting your long-term health. At Rockland Dental Specialists, our board-certified periodontist and implant specialists provide thorough examinations using the latest diagnostic techniques in our comfortable, high-end office. With over 24 years of combined experience, Dr. Mintz, Dr. Peto, and our team offer 24/7 availability and create personalized care plans that address all aspects of your oral health.

Whether you need a routine screening, dental implants, or endodontic treatment, our team is here to help. We offer complimentary insurance verifications and custom payment plans to make quality care accessible. Don’t wait to prioritize your oral health. Contact us online today to schedule your comprehensive examination.