Protect Your Health With Early Detection
Oral cancer is often a silent killer. It can easily go undetected until the later stages when it is difficult to treat. Over 50,000 Americans are diagnosed each year with oral cancer, and almost 10,000 people die from it each year. Early detection can be a life saver, and oral cancer treatment has a high success rate when started in the early stages.
At Restore Dental, we are committed to protecting our patients’ health. We offer oral cancer screening as one of our preventive oral health services at our dental center in Highlands Ranch. Taking a few minutes for a screening today can make a meaningful difference in your long-term well-being.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening
What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can begin in the mouth or throat. Risk factors for oral cancer include frequently using tobacco products and alcohol. Viral infections, like HPV, can also impact risk for oral cancer. Most people who are diagnosed with oral cancer are over 40, but it can occur at any age.
Oral cancer is dangerous due to its minimal symptoms. Many people may not have symptoms, but there are some that can be indications of oral cancer. These symptoms or signs include:
- Sore throat
- White or red spots on the gums or mouth tissues
- A sore that does not heal (may look like a canker sore or wart)
- Painless lump in neck or mouth
- Difficulty swallowing, speaking or chewing
- Numbness in the mouth region
These signs can alert you to schedule a dental exam and oral cancer screening, but there is a good chance you will not have symptoms. A better option is including an oral cancer screening with your annual dental exam. Dr. Chiu can use advanced oral imaging and testing equipment that can detect small changes in oral tissue that may not be visible to the eye and may be a sign of oral cancer.
What to Expect During Your Screening
An oral cancer screening is quick, comfortable, and non-invasive. During your visit, we will:
1
Comprehensive Visual Exam
We carefully examine your lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and other soft tissues for any unusual spots or changes in color or texture.
2
Physical Examination
We gently check your jaw, neck, and throat areas to feel for any lumps, swelling, or irregularities that may need further attention.
3
Advanced Imaging Technology
We may use specialized tools to highlight abnormalities in oral tissues that are not easily visible to the naked eye.
4
Personalized Discussion
We talk through any symptoms, habits, or concerns you may have and guide you on the next steps if anything unusual is found.
The entire process usually takes just a few minutes but provides valuable insight into your oral health.
Who Should Get Screened
Oral cancer doesn’t always show obvious warning signs in its early stages. That’s what makes routine screenings so important. A simple, quick exam during your dental visit can help detect abnormalities before they become serious.
While screenings are beneficial for everyone, you may be at higher risk if you:
- Use tobacco products
- Drink alcohol frequently
- Have a history of HPV
- Spend significant time in the sun (lip cancer risk)
- Are over the age of 40
Even if none of these apply, routine screenings are still recommended as part of your regular dental care. Staying consistent with screenings helps catch changes early, even if you feel completely healthy. Your dentist can also tailor screening frequency based on your lifestyle and medical history.
Early detection not only improves treatment success but can also reduce the need for more complex procedures later.
Preventive Care for Long-Term Health
Your oral health can affect your overall wellness. Make sure to schedule routine dental exams and include an oral cancer screening to help protect your smile and your health. Contact us at Restore Dental to schedule your next dental checkup at our dental practice in Highlands Ranch.
Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to avoid serious health concerns down the road. By staying proactive with regular visits, you are taking an important step toward maintaining both your oral and overall health for years to come.
Book Your Screening Appointment Now