Oral Cancer Screenings
At Holistic Dentists, we believe in caring for the whole person—not just their smile. Your oral health is deeply connected to your overall well-being, and early detection of oral cancer is an essential part of maintaining a healthy life. That’s why we offer gentle, thorough oral cancer screenings as part of your regular check-up or as a standalone service.
Oral cancer may not be widely discussed, but it’s a serious condition that affects nearly 40,000 Americans each year. The good news? Early detection greatly improves outcomes. We’re here to help you take a proactive approach to your health in a warm, supportive environment.
Recognizing the Signs of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can develop in the lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, and gums. Common symptoms include:
- Lumps or bumps in the mouth
- Persistent pain in the jaw, neck, or shoulders
- Chronic sore throat or hoarseness
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Dramatic weight loss
We encourage open conversations about any symptoms or concerns you may have. Your health matters to us, and we’re here to listen.
Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?
While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain factors may increase your risk, including:
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Frequent alcohol consumption
- Excessive sun exposure (without lip protection)
- Poor oral hygiene
- A family history of oral cancer
- Being over the age of 40
- A history of HPV (human papillomavirus), which has become a leading risk factor, especially for younger adults
Knowledge is power. Understanding your personal risk allows us to create a screening schedule that best supports your long-term health.
How Often Should You Get Screened?
- Every six months for high-risk individuals
- Annually for lower-risk individuals under 40
-
Immediately if you’ve tested positive for HPV or notice
unusual symptoms
Preventive care is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in working together to keep you healthy with screenings that fit your needs.
What to Expect During Your Screening
Using high-resolution imaging, intraoral photography and hands-on evaluation, we assess for unusual tissue changes, inflammation, and structural issues that could affect breathing, sleep and systemic health.
We take the time to explain what we see, and if anything needs further evaluation, we’ll guide you through your next steps with compassion and clarity.
What If We Find Something Unusual?
If we notice any areas of concern, we may recommend a small, simple biopsy to analyze the tissue. We will guide you through every step, provide clear answers to your questions, and offer support throughout the process.
Preventing Oral Cancer Between Screenings
Screenings are just one part of oral cancer prevention. You can take steps at home to reduce your risk:
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
-
Use sunscreen on your lips
when outdoors - Maintain excellent oral hygiene
-
Perform a self-exam by checking your
mouth and tongue for unusual changes
If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait—reach out to us right away.
Your Health is Our Priority
At Holistic Dentists, we believe in compassionate, proactive care. Our team is here to educate, support, and empower you to take control of your health.
Taking just a few minutes for a screening could make all the difference. Call us today to schedule your appointment—we’re here for you.
