Short answer
An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless check of your mouth, tongue, throat and neck for changes that need a closer look. The dentist looks and feels for sores, lumps or colour changes that do not heal. Finding changes early means they can be checked sooner.
What does an oral cancer screening check?
A screening looks at the soft tissues of your mouth and the areas around it. This includes the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, floor and roof of the mouth, and the back of the throat. The dentist also feels the jaw and the sides of the neck for lumps.
What happens during the exam?
- The dentist asks about any sores, pain, lumps or changes you have noticed, and about your health history.
- They look closely at the inside of your mouth, often with a light.
- They gently feel the cheeks, jaw and neck.
- They tell you what they found, and whether anything needs follow-up.
The exam is usually quick and painless.
Who is at higher risk?
Anyone can develop mouth cancer. Risk is higher for people who use tobacco, drink a lot of alcohol, have certain HPV infections, or have had a lot of sun exposure on the lips. It is also more common as people get older. A screening is useful whatever your risk.
Warning signs you can watch for at home
- A sore or ulcer that does not heal after about two weeks.
- Red or white patches in the mouth.
- A lump or thickened area in the mouth or neck.
- Pain, numbness or trouble chewing, swallowing or moving the tongue or jaw.
- A lasting hoarse voice or sore throat.
Many of these have harmless causes. Still, book a visit if something lasts.
What if something looks unusual?
Most changes turn out not to be cancer. If the dentist sees something unusual, they will explain what they saw and the next steps. This may include watching the area, further tests or a referral to a specialist or doctor. You will not be left to guess.
Frequently asked questions
- What is an oral cancer screening?
- It is a visual and hands-on exam of your mouth, throat and neck to look for changes that may need testing.
- Does it hurt?
- No. The dentist looks and gently feels the area.
- How often should I have one?
- Your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your risk and your check-up plan.
- Can I check my own mouth?
- You can look for sores, patches and lumps that do not go away. A self-check does not replace a dental exam.
- What happens if something is found?
- Your dentist will explain the next step, which may be follow-up, tests or a referral.
Next step
To arrange an exam, read about the clinic's oral cancer screening service or book a visit. Wetaskiwin Smiles is at 3600 56 St Unit 101, Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 3T5. Call (780) 396-4040 or request an appointment online.