What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening at the Dentist?

An oral cancer screening is a quick visual and hands-on check of your mouth, face, neck, and the back of your throat for any changes that might need a closer look. Your dentist can do this during a regular visit, but the screening alone doesn’t diagnose cancer.

At Watson Family Dental in Watson, LA, we include oral cancer screenings as part of your routine dental exam. If you notice a sore, lump, red or white patch, or any change in your mouth that lasts more than two weeks, let us know right away instead of waiting for your next cleaning.

What Does a Dentist Check During an Oral Cancer Exam?

An oral cancer exam is painless and only takes a few minutes. Your dentist or hygienist will check your face, neck, lips, mouth, and the back of your throat for any signs that need attention.

During the exam, your dentist may look and feel for:

• a sore, irritation, or thickened area that is not healing
• red or white patches
• unusual lumps or swelling
• changes on or under the tongue
• unusual areas around the jaw or neck

Most changes in your mouth have causes other than cancer. A screening helps your dentist decide if something needs a closer look.

What Happens If Your Dentist Finds Something Unusual?

If your dentist finds something unusual during an oral cancer screening, it doesn’t mean you have cancer. Sometimes, your dentist may recommend more testing or refer you to a specialist for a closer look.

The American Cancer Society explains that a biopsy is the only way to know for sure whether oral or oropharyngeal cancer is present. Screening helps identify areas that may need diagnostic testing.

Can an Oral Cancer Screening at the Dentist Replace a Biopsy?

No. A visual and physical exam can point out tissue that needs more evaluation, but it can’t confirm cancer.

At Watson Family Dental, we’ll talk with you about what the screening shows and whether you need any follow-up. You’ll know when to take action on a finding, without confusing a screening result with a diagnosis.

Oral Cancer Screening in Watson, LA

Watson Family Dental provides oral cancer screening in Watson, LA for patients from Watson, Denham Springs, Central, and surrounding Livingston Parish communities. Dr. Jared Eades, DDS, earned his dental degree from LSU School of Dentistry and focuses on helping patients feel comfortable and informed about their care.

If you’re due for a checkup or have noticed a change that won’t go away, our team can take a look and let you know if more evaluation is needed.

FAQs About the Exam

Is an oral cancer screening painful?

The exam is painless and only takes a few minutes. Your dentist will look at the tissues in and around your mouth and gently feel your neck and jaw.

Should I wait for my next cleaning if I notice a mouth sore or lump?

No. NIDCR recommends seeing a dentist or doctor when symptoms such as a sore, lump, or red or white patch last more than two weeks.

Schedule an Oral Cancer Exam in Watson, LA

If you want us to check a persistent change or you’re due for preventive care, schedule an appointment with Watson Family Dental. Dr. Eades can perform an oral cancer exam, explain what he finds, and let you know if any area needs more attention.