Oral Cancer Screenings


When you go in for a routine checkup at our office, Dr. Vong will perform an oral cancer screening. A typical oral cancer screening consists of a detailed visual examination of your mouth, throat, and neck. If abnormalities are found during a basic oral cancer screening, further tests will be called for. Oral cancer exams are recommended for all patients, but are of particular importance for smokers and drinkers due to their increased risk of oral cancer.

The Process of Oral Cancer Screenings

When you go in for a dental checkup, Dr. Vong will carefully examine your mouth and throat. The dentist will look for red and white patches in your skin as well as lumps in your mouth, throat, or neck. Dr. Vong will also check for open sores within your mouth on your gums, lips, inner-cheeks, throat, and tongue.

Occasional open sores are common for many patients, and the vast majority of such sores are non-cancerous. If your dentist finds anything of concern during your oral cancer screening, he will perform a biopsy to test the irregular cells, or in some cases, may refer you to a specialist for further testing.

Oral cancer is most common amongst people who both smoke and drink heavily – upwards of 30 alcoholic drinks per week. In fact, 75% of all oral cancer patients match this criterion. If you are a smoker and/or someone who drinks heavily, be sure to see your dentist regularly – as frequently as every six months – to monitor for symptoms of oral cancer.

A regular oral cancer screening is also highly recommended for anyone who has been previously diagnosed with an oral cancer.

Benefits of Oral Cancer Screenings

As with any form of cancer, regular screenings give you the best chance at early detection and successful treatment. Routine dental exams which include oral cancer screenings will help keep your overall health up and increase your chances of a long, healthy life. In our dental office, oral cancer screenings are always included in your basic checkup, which is always competitively priced.

If you have any questions and concerns, please call our office and Dr. Vong will be happy to answer them!