Oral Cancer Screening in Redondo Beach, CA
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screenings are an important part of preventive dental care and can help detect signs of cancer or other abnormalities in the mouth at an early stage. At South Redondo Dental Group in Redondo Beach, CA, Dr. Gregory Shvartsman performs oral cancer screenings as part of routine dental exams to help protect patients’ overall health.
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick and painless examination of the mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues to check for signs of oral cancer or abnormal changes.
During the screening, the dentist carefully examines areas including:
• The lips and inside of the cheeks
• The tongue and floor of the mouth
• The gums and roof of the mouth
• The throat and surrounding tissues
The goal of the screening is to identify unusual lumps, discoloration, sores, or other abnormalities that may require further evaluation.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are Important
Oral cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why routine screenings are essential.
Early detection can help:
• Identify abnormal tissue changes early
• Improve treatment success rates
• Prevent cancer from spreading
• Protect overall oral and systemic health
Regular dental visits provide an opportunity for dentists to perform screenings and monitor changes in the mouth over time.
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain factors may increase the risk of developing the disease.
Common risk factors include:
• Tobacco use, including cigarettes and chewing tobacco
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Prolonged sun exposure affecting the lips
• A family history of cancer
Patients who have these risk factors may benefit from routine screenings and regular dental checkups.
What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screenings are typically performed during a routine dental exam and only take a few minutes.
Dr. Gregory Shvartsman will visually examine the mouth and may gently feel the tissues of the neck, jaw, and throat to check for unusual lumps or abnormalities.
If any suspicious areas are detected, additional evaluation or referral may be recommended to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Oral Cancer Screening
Why is oral cancer screening important?
Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. Regular screenings help identify potential problems before symptoms become severe.
Who should get an oral cancer screening?
Adults should receive regular screenings during routine dental visits. Patients who smoke, use tobacco, drink alcohol frequently, or have a family history of cancer may be at higher risk.
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
Most dentists perform an oral cancer screening during routine dental checkups, typically every six months.
What are the signs of oral cancer?
Common signs include persistent sores, lumps, red or white patches in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained pain in the mouth or throat.
What happens if something unusual is found during the screening?
If your dentist detects an abnormal area, they may recommend additional testing or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
