Oral cancer screening gives our dentists an opportunity to look for unusual changes in the mouth that may need closer evaluation. At Excellence in Dentistry, we provide oral cancer screening in Idaho Falls, Idaho, as part of a comprehensive approach to monitoring your oral health.
Screening can be incorporated into routine general and family dentistry visits when appropriate. Our dentists examine the tissues of the mouth and surrounding areas for changes that may not be causing noticeable symptoms yet.
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is an examination of the mouth and nearby tissues for unusual areas or changes that may warrant additional attention. Our dentists may look at the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, roof and floor of the mouth and other visible oral tissues during the screening.
The purpose of screening is to identify findings that should be monitored or evaluated further. A screening itself does not diagnose oral cancer, and an unusual area does not automatically mean cancer is present.
What Can Our Dentists Look For?
During an oral cancer screening, our dentists may check for changes such as:
- Sores or irritated areas that are not healing as expected
- Red, white or otherwise unusual patches of tissue
- Lumps, thickened areas or changes in texture
- Unexplained swelling
- Changes involving the tongue, lips, cheeks or gums
- Other visible or palpable abnormalities that may need further evaluation
Many oral changes can have causes unrelated to cancer. If our dentists notice something unusual, they can explain what they found and recommend an appropriate next step.
Why Oral Cancer Screening Matters
Some concerning changes in the mouth may be difficult to notice on your own, particularly when they occur in less visible areas. Regular dental visits give our dentists an opportunity to examine oral tissues in addition to checking the teeth and gums.
Screening is one part of preventive dental care and should be considered alongside your dental history, symptoms and individual risk factors. If you have noticed a persistent change in your mouth, you should mention it during your visit rather than waiting for a routine screening.
When Should You Ask About an Oral Screening?
You can talk with our dentists about screening during a routine exam, especially if you have noticed a new or persistent change involving the mouth, lips or throat area.
You should let our team know if you have an area that has not improved, unexplained discomfort or another oral change that concerns you. Our dentists can examine the area and determine whether monitoring, additional evaluation or referral is appropriate.
Oral Cancer Screening During Preventive Visits
Oral cancer screening can fit naturally into a broader preventive visit. During an appointment that may also include dental cleanings and an examination, our dentists can evaluate not only the teeth and gums but also the visible tissues of the mouth.
This broader view of oral health helps our team monitor changes over time and gives patients an opportunity to bring up symptoms or concerns they may have noticed between visits.
Experience With Comprehensive Dental Care
Dr. Curtis Godfrey has provided comprehensive dental care for more than 20 years and completes more than 100 hours of continuing education annually with Spear Education. Dr. Brock Russell also provides comprehensive care and continues to expand his clinical knowledge through advanced continuing education.
Our dentists use routine examinations as an opportunity to look beyond individual teeth and consider the overall health of the mouth when planning care.
Oral Cancer Screening FAQs
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
Our dentists visually examine the tissues of the mouth and may also feel certain areas for unusual changes. If something concerning is identified, they can explain the finding and recommend an appropriate next step.
Does an oral cancer screening diagnose cancer?
No. Screening is used to look for unusual changes that may need additional evaluation. A diagnosis requires further assessment when a suspicious area is identified.
Can oral cancer develop without pain?
Some oral changes may not cause noticeable discomfort, which is one reason routine examinations can be useful. If you notice a persistent change in your mouth, let our dentists know even if it is not painful.
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
The appropriate frequency depends on your individual health history, risk factors and clinical findings. Our dentists can discuss whether and when screening should be included in your routine dental care.
What happens if our dentists find something unusual?
An unusual finding does not automatically mean cancer is present. Our dentists can determine whether the area should be monitored, evaluated further or referred for additional assessment.
Where can I schedule an oral cancer screening in Idaho Falls, Idaho?
Excellence in Dentistry provides oral cancer screening as part of comprehensive dental care. Call 208-529-4321 to schedule an appointment with our dentists.
Schedule an Oral Cancer Screening
If you are due for a dental exam or have noticed a change in your mouth, ask about oral cancer screening in Idaho Falls, ID, during your visit. Call 208-529-4321 to schedule an appointment at Excellence in Dentistry with our dentists.