Oral cancer doesn’t always announce itself. Sometimes it looks like a small sore that lingers; other times, it hides under the tongue or along the cheeks with little pain. The good news is that oral cancer screening is quick, comfortable, and included in comprehensive exams at Elite Dental Wellness. Because early detection dramatically improves outcomes, this simple step belongs in every Houstoner’s health routine.
What Oral Cancer Screening Actually Checks
An oral cancer screening is a head-and-neck evaluation focused on tissues in and around your mouth. We look for changes in color, texture, or shape and feel for lumps or lymph node swelling. The exam covers:
- Lips, cheeks, and gums
- Tongue (top, sides, and underneath)
- Floor and roof of the mouth
- Tonsils and back of throat
- Jaw joints and neck lymph nodes
You’ll open wide, say “ahh,” and move your tongue from side to side while we use light and gentle palpation to check all surfaces.
Who’s At Higher Risk?
Anyone can develop oral cancer, but risk rises with:
- Tobacco use (smoking or smokeless)
- Alcohol intake, especially combined with tobacco
- HPV (human papillomavirus) exposure
- Prolonged sun exposure to lips (think Texas summers)
- Age 40+, though HPV-related cases skew younger
- Previous oral cancer or precancerous lesions
Still, many cases occur without any classic risk factors, which is why routine screening matters for everyone.
Early Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
- A mouth sore or ulcer that does not heal after two weeks
- Red or white patches on the tongue, gums, or inner cheeks
- A lump, thickening, or rough spot
- Persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or feeling of something stuck
- Numbness in the mouth or lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw/tongue
- Ear pain without an ear infection
- Unexplained bleeding or weight loss
If any symptom lingers, call promptly. Most abnormalities are benign, but we don’t guess—we evaluate.
What Happens If We See Something Suspicious?
Step one is documentation with photos and detailed notes. Depending on appearance and your history, we may:
- Recheck the area in 10–14 days (many traumatic ulcers heal in that time).
- Refer for a tissue biopsy or advanced imaging if features suggest precancer.
- Coordinate with your medical team for HPV testing or ENT evaluation when indicated.
The goal is clarity and speed. If a biopsy is needed, it’s typically a small, local procedure.
How Often Should You Be Screened?
We screen at every comprehensive exam and often during routine checkups. If you have risk factors or a history of lesions, we may recommend more frequent checks. Self-checks at home between visits are a smart habit—use a well-lit mirror and look under the tongue and along the cheeks monthly.
Prevention You Can Practice Daily
- Quit tobacco; we can share resources that actually help.
- Limit alcohol and avoid mixing tobacco + alcohol.
- Use SPF lip balm in the Texas sun.
- Stay on top of HPV vaccination for eligible family members (talk to your physician).
- Keep regular dental visits so subtle changes aren’t missed.
Why Dental Visits Catch Problems Earlier
Dentists examine areas you can’t easily see—under the tongue, the soft palate, and deep along the cheeks. Because we track your mouth over time, small changes stand out. We also photograph lesions to compare at follow-ups, making decisions more precise.
Addressing Anxiety About Screening
The exam is painless and fast. If the idea of “cancer checks” creates stress, remember: most concerns are not cancer, and finding anything early is far better than waiting. We explain what we see in real time, so you walk out informed—not worried.
Benefits At A Glance
- Detects abnormalities at earlier, more treatable stages
- Takes only minutes, with no needles or special prep
- Offers peace of mind between medical checkups
- Empowers you with self-check guidance
Make Oral Screening Part Of Your Health Routine
Add an oral cancer screening to your next cleaning—it’s built into our comprehensive approach. Call Elite Dental Wellness in Houston at (713) 789-8680 to Schedule a Consultation.
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