Oral Cancer Screenings in San Diego, CA
Dentists are experts of the mouth, so they know about its structures and the diseases it can develop. When our dentist in San Diego, CA performs an oral exam, they not only inspect the teeth and gums, but they also do oral cancer screenings near you.
What is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a thorough examination of the mouth that Dr. Shervin at bliss dental arts should do at least once a year, if not at routine exams and cleanings every six months. Oral cancers move quickly, and if they are not found within their first stage, the chances of surviving them are low. The screening is quick and easy, which is why Dr. Shervin does it while examining your teeth.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
You must know what the symptoms of oral cancer are so that you can recognize them and have them examined immediately. The symptoms are:
- A lump or sore on lips, throat, or the mouth
- Difficulty moving jaw or tongue
- Difficulty with chewing or swallowing
- Swelling around the jaw
- A persisting sore throat
- Non-healing red or white lesions in the mouth
Performing a Screening
Dr. Shervin will use his fingers to feel around the lips, inside the mouth, around the cheeks, and tongue using their gloved hands. They will also probe your neck and jaw to search for swellings or lumps. Using light and mirror or intraoral camera, they will search for red or white lesions in your mouth.
It’s important not to jump to conclusions if you have some symptoms or Dr. Shervin finds sores in your mouth near you. Many other explanations can account for these sores. You might have canker sores or a sore throat due to allergies or strep throat.
Oral cancer screenings in San Diego, CA are vital because we must find oral cancer as quickly as possible. The sooner it’s discovered, the better your chances of surviving it. If you haven’t had a routine exam in a while, please contact bliss dental arts to book an appointment with Dr. Shervin. Oral cancer screenings are crucial for finding and fighting oral cancers and surviving them.
FAQ's
Why is an oral cancer screening important at my dental visit?
An oral cancer screening helps identify abnormal patches, lumps or tissue changes in the mouth early—when treatment is more effective. Even without symptoms, a comprehensive exam of your lips, tongue, gums and throat supports your overall health. It’s a simple step toward prevention and peace of mind.
What does the screening process involve and how long does it take?
During the screening, your dentist visually examines and gently palpates your lips, tongue, inside cheeks, gums and neck for any irregularities. The inspection takes just a few minutes and is often included as part of your routine dental exam. You’ll be informed promptly if any follow-up is needed.
Who should get screened for oral cancer and how often?
Anyone can benefit from screening, but those who smoke, drink alcohol heavily, chew tobacco or have a history of HPV exposure or head-neck cancer should have closer monitoring. Many dentists recommend annual screenings for higher-risk patients and every dental visit for best protection.
What signs or symptoms might prompt an immediate screening?
If you notice persistent sores that won’t heal, red or white patches, unusual lumps, swelling, difficulty swallowing or unexplained bleeding, schedule a screening. Even though these symptoms don’t always mean cancer, early examination can catch serious conditions sooner.
Does the screening hurt or require any special preparation?
No special preparation is needed and it’s completely painless. You don’t need to abstain from food or drink beforehand. The examiner uses gloves, good lighting and mirror or palpation—just a standard, comfortable examination at your dental visit.
What happens if something suspicious is found during the screening?
If an area appears unusual, your dentist will monitor it and may recommend a specialist referral or biopsy. Early referral helps obtain a definitive diagnosis. The goal is to address potential problems promptly so that if treatment is required you have the best possible outcome.
Can I perform self-checks for oral cancer between dental visits?
Yes — you can observe your mouth for new lumps, patches, persistent sores or changes in tissue colour and texture. Report any findings to your dentist in San Diego, CA quickly. Monthly self-checks complement professional screenings and help you stay proactive about your health.
Does quitting smoking or reducing alcohol lower my oral cancer risk?
Absolutely. Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol and maintaining good oral hygiene significantly reduce risk. Screenings are still important, but lifestyle changes enhance their benefit. Your dental team can help guide you with risk-reduction strategies alongside the screening.
Are advanced screening tools used at dental practices?
Yes — some dentists use adjunctive tools (like special lights or dyes) to help identify suspicious tissues during the exam. These tools don’t replace the visual and manual exam but enhance it. Ask whether these are part of your screening at Bliss Dental Arts.
More To Explore
Emergency Treatments
Toothaches
Chipped Tooth
Cracked Tooth
Extreme Sensitivity
Loose Tooth
Lost Filling or Crown
Gum, Lip or Tongue Injury
Jaw Pain or Clenching
Something Stuck Between Teeth
