Approximately 30,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer annually. Early detection is the key to determining outcomes. While tobacco use, age and previous oral cancer increases the risk factors for oral cancer, 25% of all oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and have no other risk factors. Early detection and treatment is less invasive, and the outcome is far better. Dr. Michael Wilhite performs oral cancer screening on all adults over the age of 18 during each periodic exam every 6 months. Call Davidson Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today at 704-987-2277 to make your appointment with our dentist and learn more about oral cancer screening in Davidson, North Carolina.

Why Receive an Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer screening is an important part of protecting both your oral health and your overall wellbeing. Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, throat, sinuses, and the hard or soft palate. Like many serious health conditions, oral cancer is often more manageable when it is identified early. Unfortunately, many cases are not discovered until they have reached a more advanced stage, when treatment may be more complex and outcomes may be less favorable. Because of this, our office is committed to checking for signs of oral cancer as part of your routine preventive care.

During your regular dental cleanings and exams, our dentist and team perform an oral cancer screening to look for abnormalities in and around your mouth. This screening is quick, comfortable and designed to identify unusual changes that may need further evaluation. Our goal is to help detect potential concerns as early as possible so that you can receive timely care and greater peace of mind.

What We Look For During A Screening

Oral cancer screening involves examining the soft tissues of your mouth and surrounding areas for visible or physical changes. We look for warning signs that may indicate abnormal tissue or other concerns that should not be ignored.

Common symptoms of oral cancer may include:

  • A persistent sore throat or the feeling that something is caught in the back of the throat
  • Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
  • A sore on the face, neck or mouth that bleeds easily or does not heal within two weeks
  • Unexplained pain, numbness or loss of feeling in the face, neck or mouth
  • Ear pain
  • Lumps, bumps or rough spots on the gums, lips or other oral tissues
  • Red, white or red-and-white patches in the mouth
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking
  • Changes in the way your teeth or dentures fit together

These symptoms do not always mean that oral cancer is present, but they should always be evaluated carefully.

Why Early Detection Matters

Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment options and long-term health. When abnormalities are found sooner, patients often have more options for care and a better chance of successful treatment. Regular screenings are one of the simplest ways to stay proactive about your health.

Even though we perform oral cancer screenings during routine visits, it is important to contact our office if you notice any unusual symptoms, ongoing discomfort or changes in your mouth. We are dedicated to helping you protect your health through attentive, thorough dental care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screening

What is an oral cancer screening?

An oral cancer screening is an examination of the mouth, lips, tongue, throat, and surrounding tissues to look for unusual changes. Our dentist and team perform this screening to help detect signs of oral cancer or other abnormalities as early as possible.

Why is an oral cancer screening important?

Oral cancer screening is important because early detection can make a major difference in treatment outcomes. Our dentist will look for warning signs that may not be painful or obvious, helping identify concerns before they become more advanced.

What happens during an oral cancer screening?

During an oral cancer screening, our dentist will examine the soft tissues of your mouth and check for suspicious sores, discoloration, lumps, or other changes. The screening is quick, comfortable, and often performed as part of a routine dental visit.

Who should have oral cancer screenings?

Oral cancer screenings are beneficial for adults of all ages, especially those with higher risk factors such as tobacco or alcohol use. Even without symptoms, regular screenings allow our dentist to monitor your oral tissues and support early intervention if needed.