What We Look For

• Unusual sores or ulcers that do not heal within 2 weeks
• Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or cheeks
• Lumps or thickening in the soft tissues
• Difficulty swallowing or persistent hoarseness
• Numbness or pain in the mouth or lips
• Changes in how your teeth fit together

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

• Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• HPV infection
• Prolonged sun exposure (lip cancer)
• Age over 40
• Previous oral cancer diagnosis

What Happens During a Screening

We visually examine all soft tissues in your mouth — lips, cheeks, tongue, floor of mouth, palate, and throat. We also feel for lumps or abnormalities in your neck and jaw. If we find anything suspicious, we will recommend a biopsy or referral to a specialist.

When to See a Dentist

See us immediately if you have a sore in your mouth that has not healed in 2 weeks, unexplained bleeding, or a lump or thickening in your mouth or neck. Early detection is critical.