What Is an Oral Cancer Screening and Why Is It Important?

An oral cancer screening is a simple, painless examination of your mouth, tongue, gums, and throat. During this process, Dr. Manrique looks for tissue changes such as sores, red or white patches, lumps, or thickened areas that could indicate potential cancerous or precancerous cells.

Early detection is key to successful treatment outcomes. By incorporating oral pathology evaluations into every dental cancer exam, our team can identify abnormalities early, when they are easiest to treat. Your screening is part of our broader comprehensive oral exam, ensuring every visit supports both your immediate and long-term health.

How Often Should I Get an Oral Cancer Screening?

Most adults benefit from a yearly oral health screening, although patients with higher risk factors may need more frequent evaluations. During your regular visits, we automatically include an oral diagnostic check to ensure your oral tissues remain healthy.

Are Oral Cancer Screenings Included in Regular Dental Cleanings?

Yes. Every professional cleaning or preventive appointment at Everlasting Dental Care includes a dental cancer exam as part of your routine dental care. This approach allows our team to maintain consistent monitoring of your oral health without adding extra appointments or discomfort.

How Long Does an Oral Cancer Screening Take?

Our early detection oral exams typically take less than five minutes and are performed during your regular dental visit. The process is quick, comfortable, and completely noninvasive. For many patients, this small investment of time provides tremendous peace of mind knowing their oral health is being closely monitored.

What Methods or Tools Do Dentists Use for Oral Cancer Screening?

During your dental cancer screening, Dr. Manrique visually examines all soft tissues of the mouth, including the tongue, cheeks, palate, and throat. Using gentle palpation, he checks for swelling or unusual texture. When needed, we use specialized lighting and advanced oral pathology technology to highlight any irregular tissue that might not be visible under normal light.

Our comprehensive approach to tissue health evaluation ensures that every oral diagnostic check we perform is both thorough and precise, offering you the most accurate results possible.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Oral Cancer?

Certain lifestyle factors increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer. Individuals who smoke or use tobacco, drink alcohol regularly, have HPV, or spend long hours in the sun are at greater risk. Those with a family history of oral cancer should also take preventive care seriously.

For these patients, Dr. Manrique recommends frequent soft tissue wellness exams and routine oral pathology exams to ensure early detection and treatment.

If the Screening Finds Something Suspicious, What Happens Next?

If our examination identifies an area of concern, Dr. Manrique may recommend further evaluation such as a biopsy or referral to an oral surgeon. Early diagnosis offers the best chance for successful treatment and long-term recovery.

At Everlasting Dental Care, you will never face the process alone. Our team will communicate every step clearly, provide compassionate support, and coordinate with trusted specialists as needed.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Oral Cancer?

Simple lifestyle changes can significantly lower your risk of developing oral cancer. We encourage patients to:

• Quit using tobacco products
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Schedule routine mouth wellness assessments and preventive oral screenings

Making these small but consistent choices supports lifelong oral and overall health.

Comprehensive Oral Exams for Lasting Health

Your comprehensive oral exam does more than evaluate your teeth—it also protects your entire mouth. Each visit includes a full oral tissue assessment, soft tissue health check, and oral health screening to ensure your smile remains healthy and free of abnormalities.

Regular exams at Everlasting Dental Care are part of our commitment to complete dental wellness through prevention, education, and early detection.

Why Choose Everlasting Dental Care for Oral Cancer Screenings

• Advanced Technology: Our practice integrates the latest diagnostic tools for accurate oral cancer screenings and dental pathology exams.
• Experienced Care: Dr. Hugo Manrique brings years of experience and extensive training from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine.
• Convenient Hours: Open late on weekdays and every other Friday for your convenience.
• Comfort-Focused Environment: We prioritize patient comfort, communication, and trust from the moment you arrive.