Oral Cancer Screening

Each procedure is tailored to each individual patient because no two cases are the same as no two people are the same. That’s why we take the time to provide all the details about each case and procedure.

Oral cancer screenings are used to look for signs of mouth or throat cancer in a person. They are performed by our dentist during a dental checkup. These screenings help to diagnose oral cancer in the early stages when it is the most treatable. Oral cancer is a collective term for cancers affecting the lips, inside of the lips and cheeks, gums, tongue, hard and soft palates, tonsils, or pharynx (middle of throat).

Did You Know?

Oral cancer typically goes undetected for lengthy periods of time due to a lack of visible indicators and symptoms. It’s usually too late for successful therapy by the time visible abnormalities appear. Early detection can significantly enhance cancer survival rates.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need an oral cancer screening?

Everyone can benefit from oral cancer screenings and our dentists will perform them during regular dental checkups. With that being said, there are certain symptoms that can warrant an oral cancer screening such as:

  • A sore that doesn’t heal
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue
  • Unusual lumps, bumps, white or red patches, sores that won’t heal in your mouth or throat
  • Chronic sore throat or hoarseness

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then it is recommended to schedule a consultation with our Flushing, Queens dentist at New York Dental Solutions today.

What can I expect when having an oral cancer screening performed at New York Dental Solutions?

When having an oral cancer screening performed at New York Dental Solutions, our Flushing, Queens dentist will evaluate the inside of your mouth for any tissue abnormalities in terms of color or texture. A special light may also be used to detect abnormal tissue. If our dentist finds something that looks suspicious, they will recommend following up with your primary care provider for additional testing.

Can oral cancer be prevented?

Oral cancer cannot always be prevented, however there are some ways you can decrease your risk. The best way to do this is by eliminating or decreasing risk factors. Common risk factors for oral cancer include: smoking, regularly consuming alcohol, and catching the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).