Oral Cancer Screening in Cudahy, CA

Oral cancer screening is an important part of maintaining your oral health. At St James Dental Group, we examine the mouth and surrounding tissues as part of appropriate dental evaluations to look for unusual changes that may need further assessment.

Oral cancer can affect areas such as the lips, tongue, gums, inside of the cheeks, floor of the mouth, and roof of the mouth. Recognizing suspicious changes and arranging appropriate follow-up can be important steps in protecting your health.

What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is a clinical examination of the mouth and related tissues to look for abnormalities that may require further evaluation.

During an examination, your dentist may look for unusual red or white patches, sores, lumps, thickened areas, or other changes in the oral tissues. Your dentist may also feel certain areas of the mouth, jaw, and neck for unusual lumps or swelling.

An oral examination cannot diagnose cancer on its own. If an area looks suspicious, additional evaluation, a referral to a specialist, or a biopsy may be necessary.

Why Is Oral Cancer Screening Important?

Oral cancer may cause noticeable changes in the mouth, but some abnormalities may not be painful at first. Regular dental visits provide an opportunity for your dentist to examine your oral tissues and discuss any changes you have noticed.

Screening does not guarantee that cancer will be detected, but a clinical examination can help identify areas that need further attention.

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Examination?

Your dentist will visually examine the tissues inside your mouth and may gently feel the surrounding areas, including parts of the jaw and neck, as appropriate.

The examination may include checking your:

• Lips and inner cheeks

• Gums and other oral tissues

• Tongue and the area beneath it

• Roof and floor of the mouth

• Jaw and neck for unusual lumps or swelling

The examination is generally quick and noninvasive. If your dentist notices an area of concern, we will discuss the appropriate next steps.

What Signs Should You Watch For?

Contact your dentist or healthcare professional if you notice a change in your mouth that does not heal or resolve, especially if it persists for about two weeks.

Changes worth having evaluated include:

• A sore that does not heal

• Red or white patches inside the mouth

• A lump, thickened area, or persistent swelling

• Unexplained bleeding or numbness

• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving your tongue or jaw

• Persistent hoarseness or a feeling that something is stuck in your throat

These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have cancer. However, persistent or unexplained changes should be evaluated rather than ignored.

Oral Cancer Screening at St James Dental Group

At St James Dental Group, we believe that attentive, preventive dental care includes paying attention to the health of your oral tissues as well as your teeth and gums.

During your dental examination visits, we can examine your mouth for concerning changes and recommend further evaluation when needed. If you have noticed a persistent sore, unusual patch, lump, or other change, please let us know.

Schedule Your Dental Visit in Cudahy, CA

Contact St James Dental Group to schedule an appointment or discuss your oral health concerns.

Call 323-771-7254 today.

Learn more about oral cancer screening from the National Cancer Institute