- What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
- What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
- What Are the Benefits of Oral Cancer Screenings?
- Frederick J Norfolk, DMD and Associates Reviews
- Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screenings
- Reserve Your Screening
- Get In Touch
- Related Procedures
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a simple examination of the mouth, lips, tongue, throat, and nearby tissues for signs that may need further evaluation. Our dental professionals at Frederick J. Norfolk, DMD and Associates perform dental oral cancer screenings as part of a routine dental visit, and it usually takes a few minutes. Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor or roof of the mouth, gums, and throat. Some early changes may cause very little discomfort or be difficult to notice at home. A screening does not diagnose cancer, but it can help identify changes that deserve a closer look. Schedule a consultation at our Milford, MA practice to enjoy a healthy, confident smile.
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer exam is typically quick and considered comfortable. Our dental team begins by visually examining the lips and the inside of the mouth. The tongue, cheeks, gums, roof and floor of the mouth, and areas toward the back of the throat may also be checked. The goal is to look for sores, patches, changes in color, lumps, swelling, or other unusual tissue. The examination may also include gently feeling areas of the mouth, jaw, and neck for lumps or other changes. A mouth cancer screening does not require surgery and generally does not interfere with the rest of your dental appointment. An unusual finding does not automatically mean cancer is present. Abnormal oral cancer screening results may lead to monitoring the area, scheduling another examination, or recommending evaluation by an appropriate specialist.
What Are the Benefits of Oral Cancer Screenings?
Oral cancer screenings at Frederick J. Norfolk, DMD and Associates in Milford, MA add an important layer to routine dental visits by examining areas that patients may have difficulty seeing on their own. Because early oral cancer may not always cause obvious symptoms, regular screenings can help identify suspicious changes sooner. Benefits may include:
- Recognizing suspicious oral changes earlier
- Closer monitoring of mouth and throat tissues
- Identifying concerns that may not cause symptoms
- Routine checks of hard-to-see areas of the mouth
- Timely evaluation of unusual sores, lumps, or patches
- Professional tracking of tissue changes over time
- Prompt referral for further testing when appropriate
- A more complete assessment of oral health
Frederick J Norfolk, DMD and Associates Reviews
Great dental practice that really cares about their patients.
Good experience and great staff. On time, no real wait for the appointment. Hygienist did a great job.
If you need Dental work, Dr. Norfolk, his Dental Staff, and his Office Team are “Best in Class”. This is a Dental Practice that cares about their patients and provides outstanding Dental work.
There's sinply no better dentist than Dr Norfolk I never worry about a thing when it go in for dental work under his expert care..He and his excellent and friendly staff are the very best!
I have had A LOT of dental work and procedures from injuries and genetics and this group of practitioners is by far the most precise, professional and compassionate I have encountered. I have recommended the Norfolk group to everyone I am in contact. Everyone has returned with a superlative responses and experience. I think Dr Norfolk is a caring and great dentist and person. (I am not related to him)
25
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screenings
Can I develop oral cancer even if I do not smoke?
Tobacco use is a major risk factor, but oral cancer can also occur in people who have never smoked or used tobacco products. Age, alcohol use, sun exposure on the lips, HPV infection, family and personal health history, and other factors may influence risk.
Are certain age groups more likely to develop oral cancer?
Oral cancer becomes more common with age, although it can occur in younger adults as well. Individual risk varies based on health history, lifestyle, and other factors. Our dental professionals can consider these factors as part of your overall oral health assessment.
Is HPV associated with some types of oral cancer?
Certain strains of human papillomavirus, or HPV, are associated with cancers that develop in the throat and nearby areas. These cancers may occur in people without traditional risk factors such as tobacco use. Regular dental visits provide opportunities for a dental professional to examine the mouth and surrounding tissues for unusual findings.
Can sun exposure increase the risk of cancer on the lips?
Long-term exposure to ultraviolet rays can raise the risk of lip cancer, particularly on the lower lip. People who spend significant amounts of time outdoors may have greater exposure over the years. Using lip products with sun protection and watching for persistent changes can help protect this area.
Should I tell my dentist about a sore in my mouth that will not heal?
Many mouth sores are harmless and disappear on their own, but a sore that persists deserves professional evaluation. Tell our dental team about an area that has lasted for two weeks or longer or has changed in appearance.
Reserve Your Screening
Oral cancer screenings are brief, noninvasive examinations that can be incorporated into regular dental visits. Finding suspicious tissue early can help us evaluate concerns sooner, while routine screenings allow our dental team to monitor changes over time. Frederick J. Norfolk, DMD and Associates provides thorough oral examinations in a welcoming, professional setting. Contact our Milford, MA practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about oral cancer screenings.