Oral cancer screening

If your oral cancer screening results are normal, it means there are no evident signs of cancer or any other concerning issues with your mouth or throat.

If your screening reveals abnormalities or suspicious lesions, your dentist will discuss these findings with you. They may collaborate with a specialist for further testing, including:

• Biopsy: A small sample of tissue will be taken for laboratory analysis to determine if cancerous cells are present.
• Imaging tests: In some cases, additional imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans or MRIs may be suggested to assess the extent of the abnormality or to check for signs that cancer has spread.

If needed, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon or an oncologist for further evaluation and management, especially if cancer is suspected.

If the abnormalities are not definitively cancerous but require monitoring, your dentist will schedule follow-up appointments to track any changes over time.

Oral cancer screening FAQs

How to detect oral cancer

During your oral cancer screening, your dentist will visually examine your mouth and throat. Aspen Dental uses specialized tools such as OralID to aid in detecting abnormal tissues and prompt further diagnostic tests like biopsies if any suspicious findings are identified. We also recommend checking for indicating signs at home, such as swollen and hard lymph nodes near your jawline, discoloration in your cheeks and gums or if you have difficulty moving your tongue.

You can receive a traditional oral cancer screening at various healthcare facilities, including your local Dental Corner office, oral surgery clinics and some primary care physician offices. It’s essential to schedule regular dental check-ups, as your Dental Corner care team may include an enhanced oral cancer screening as part of the exam.

Oral cancer screenings are recommended for adults of all ages, as oral cancer can affect anyone regardless of age or gender. Individuals with risk factors such as tobacco or alcohol use, a family history of oral cancer or previous oral cancer diagnoses should especially consider regular screenings.

Generally, you should have an oral cancer screening at least once a year during your routine dental check-up. However, individuals with higher risk factors, such as tobacco users, may require more frequent screenings.