Oral Cancer Screenings in Atlanta, GA
When we think about taking care of our mouth, we always remember the basics of brushing and flossing. Even going to the dentists for regular exams and cleanings in Atlanta is a part of many people’s oral health routine. There is more to maintaining your oral health than just cleaning teeth and gums.
While most don’t want to talk about it, it is also a good idea to regularly get oral cancer screening. Our dentist near you at 3640 Dental will be able to tell you whether or not you are at risk, but even if not, it’s important to be checked regularly to prevent any future issues.
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What is an Oral Cancer Screening?
Unlike routine exams, an oral cancer screening is a specialized procedure our dentist in Atlanta will perform if requested.
Typically, an oral cancer screening begins with the patient’s medical history to determine if any risk factors may put them at higher risk for oral cancer, such as family history or smoking.
Once this is done, the process then moves on to the actual screening. This is done by the dentist performing a visual examination of the patient’s mouth. Using light to help illuminate the mouth, gums, teeth, and tongue, the dentist will visually check for any spots of discoloration, abscesses, signs of swelling, or lumps.
The dentist may also physically check the throat and neck for any signs of growths or swelling. If nothing is found during either portion of the screening, the patient is free to go home until their next routine visit. However, if signs of cancer are present, the dentist may take a biopsy sent off to a lab for further tests and schedule a follow-up visit to determine the next steps.
While no one wants to deal with cancer, preventative screenings are the best way to catch it early enough that it can be dealt with before becoming a serious issue. If you require an oral cancer screening, then contact 3640 Dental to schedule yours right away.
FAQs
The screening is designed to identify subtle tissue changes that may not cause pain or visible symptoms. Detecting abnormalities early allows for faster intervention and significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Many early-stage oral cancers develop quietly. By the time discomfort appears, disease progression may already be advanced. Routine checks increase the likelihood of identifying changes while they’re still manageable.
Dentists assess for unusual discoloration, texture differences, unexplained lumps, or areas that fail to heal normally. Even small irregularities can warrant closer observation or referral.
In most cases, it involves careful visual inspection and gentle palpation of tissues. Some providers may use adjunctive tools to enhance visibility, but the process remains non-invasive.
Yes. Tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, sun exposure to the lips, and certain viral infections increase risk, making consistent screening especially important for these individuals.
If an area appears abnormal, follow-up testing or referral to a specialist may be recommended. Many findings are benign, but confirmation ensures accurate diagnosis.
The evaluation is typically brief and incorporated into a routine dental exam, requiring only a few additional minutes without causing discomfort.
