Oral cancer screening is a quick, noninvasive part of preventive dental care that can help identify unusual changes in the mouth, lips, tongue, throat or surrounding tissues. At The Dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Kirian includes oral cancer screenings as part of routine dental exams for patients in Newark, Ohio.
Early detection matters. If it has been more than six months since your last dental exam, call 740-366-1236 to schedule a visit with our dentist.
Early Detection Starts With Routine Dental Visits
Oral cancer can develop in areas that are difficult to see or feel on your own. During a screening, our team looks for changes in the soft tissues of the mouth and throat, including sores, lumps, discoloration or areas that do not appear to be healing normally.
An oral cancer screening does not diagnose cancer by itself, but it can help identify areas that may need closer evaluation. When concerns are found early, patients can be referred for additional testing or specialist care sooner.
What Our Team Looks For During a Screening
During an oral cancer screening, our dentist checks the mouth and surrounding areas for signs that may need further attention. This may include:
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Sores that do not heal
- Lumps, thickened tissue or unusual swelling
- Changes on the tongue, cheeks, lips or floor of the mouth
- Persistent tenderness, numbness or irritation
- Difficulty swallowing or changes in how the throat feels
- Unexplained bleeding or tissue changes
Who Should Have an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screenings are important for adults of all ages and may be especially important for patients with certain risk factors. Our team may recommend regular screenings if you:
- Use tobacco or have used tobacco in the past
- Drink alcohol heavily or frequently
- Have a history of oral cancer or precancerous lesions
- Have significant sun exposure affecting the lips
- Notice a sore, lump or tissue change that does not go away
- Are due for a routine dental exam
Even patients without obvious risk factors can benefit from routine screenings because oral tissue changes are not always painful or easy to notice at home.
What to Expect During the Screening
An oral cancer screening is simple, quick and painless. Dr. Kirian will visually examine your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, palate, throat and other oral tissues. He may also gently feel areas of the jaw, neck or mouth to check for lumps, tenderness or unusual tissue changes.
No special preparation is needed, and the screening can usually be completed during your regular dental cleaning and exam. If something unusual is found, our team will explain the finding and recommend the appropriate next step.
Benefits of Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screening is an important part of preventive dentistry because it helps our team monitor more than just your teeth and gums. Benefits include:
- Early detection: Screening can help identify suspicious changes before they become more advanced.
- Simple preventive care: The process is fast, noninvasive and can be included in routine dental visits.
- Better awareness: Our team can help you understand what changes to watch for at home.
- Peace of mind: Regular screenings help you stay proactive about your oral and overall health.
- Timely referrals: If further evaluation is needed, our team can guide you toward the right next step.
When to Call Between Dental Visits
Do not wait for your next routine exam if you notice a concerning change in your mouth. Call 740-366-1236 if you have a sore that does not heal, a lump, unexplained bleeding, persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing or a red or white patch that lasts longer than two weeks.
Many oral changes are not cancer, but they should still be evaluated. Prompt attention helps our team determine whether the area can be monitored, treated or referred for additional care.
Why Choose The Dentist for Preventive Dental Care?
At The Dentist, preventive care includes careful attention to the teeth, gums and soft tissues of the mouth. Dr. Kirian earned his dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry after completing his bachelor’s degree at Capital University. During his time at OSU, he had the honor of serving as one of two team dentists for the athletic department.
He is a member of the American Dental Association®, Ohio Dental Association, Knox-Licking County Dental Association, Ohio State University Dental Alumni Association and Central Ohio Dental Forum, part of the Seattle Study Club. He has been named to Top Dentists of Central Ohio each year since 2012 and completes many hours of continuing education to stay current with changing dental techniques and technology.
Patients in Newark, OH, can expect thorough exams, clear communication and preventive care focused on long-term oral health.
Related Services
Oral cancer screening is part of a complete preventive dental care plan. You may also want to learn more about:
- General and family dentistry
- Dental cleanings and exams
- Intraoral cameras
- Digital X-rays
- Contact our office
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screening
What is an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a visual and physical exam of the mouth, lips, tongue, throat and surrounding tissues to look for unusual changes that may need further evaluation.
Is oral cancer screening painful?
No. The screening is quick, noninvasive and painless. It is typically completed as part of a routine dental exam.
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
Many patients receive an oral cancer screening during routine dental exams. Patients with higher risk factors, such as tobacco or heavy alcohol use, may need closer monitoring.
What happens if something unusual is found?
Our team will explain what was found and recommend the next step. This may include monitoring the area, scheduling a follow-up or referring you to a specialist for further evaluation.
What are signs I should have checked right away?
Call our office if you notice a sore that does not heal, a lump, red or white patches, unexplained bleeding, persistent pain, numbness or difficulty swallowing.
Can oral cancer screening diagnose cancer?
No. A screening helps identify areas that may need further evaluation. A diagnosis requires additional testing by the appropriate medical or dental specialist.
Schedule an Oral Cancer Screening
If you are due for a dental exam or have noticed an unusual change in your mouth, our team is here to help. Call 740-366-1236 today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Newark, Ohio.