Oral Cancer Screenings

What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is a visual and physical exam of your mouth, lips, cheeks, tongue, throat, and jaw. Dr. Cheung looks for any unusual spots, lumps, or tissue changes that may require further evaluation. It only takes a few minutes and can be easily included during your regular check-up.

Signs We Look For

During your screening, we examine for:

• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Sores that don't heal within two weeks
• Lumps, thickened areas, or rough spots
• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing

If we find anything suspicious, we'll discuss next steps, which may include monitoring, referral, or biopsy.

Who Should Get Screened?

While everyone benefits from screenings, those at higher risk include tobacco users, heavy alcohol consumers, people with a history of oral HPV infection, those with prolonged sun exposure, and those with a family history of head and neck cancer. Even without risk factors, annual screenings are recommended.

Screening Is Quick, Comfortable & Included

There's no separate appointment needed for an oral cancer screening - it's seamlessly integrated into your regular dental checkup. Dr. Cheung uses a mirror, light, and gentle palpation to examine your mouth, tongue, throat, and jaw for any unusual changes. Most patients don't even realize the screening is happening because it's so quick and non-invasive.

If anything looks unusual, Dr. Cheung will discuss next steps with you clearly and calmly - whether that means monitoring the area, ordering additional tests, or referring you to a specialist. Early detection is the single most important factor in successful oral cancer treatment.