Early detection saves lives. That’s why we include a thorough oral cancer screening as part of your comprehensive exam at Strasburg Dental Group. This quick, comfortable evaluation allows your dentists to spot subtle changes in the mouth and throat—often before symptoms are noticeable—so any concerns can be addressed promptly.
Why Screening Matters
Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, palate, floor of the mouth, and throat. When detected early, outcomes improve significantly. Routine screenings help identify suspicious lesions, color changes, tissue thickening, or non-healing sores. We also review your medical and lifestyle history to understand personal risk factors and tailor guidance to you.
What We Look For
During your exam, we visually assess the soft tissues and gently palpate the neck and jawline to evaluate lymph nodes and supporting structures. We look for red or white patches, ulcerations, lumps, rough spots, or areas that bleed easily. We also check for persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or changes in how your teeth come together that could indicate underlying tissue concerns.
When to Contact Us
Call us right away if you notice a sore that doesn’t heal within two weeks, unexplained pain, a persistent lump or thickening, changes in speech, or a sensation of something stuck in the throat. While many changes are benign, it’s important to investigate early for your peace of mind and health.
Risk Factors & Prevention
Risk factors include tobacco use in any form, frequent or heavy alcohol use, prolonged sun exposure to the lips, age, and exposure to certain strains of HPV. Protective steps include routine dental visits, daily self-checks, lip sunscreen, and minimizing tobacco and alcohol. If we find a suspicious area, we’ll guide you through next steps, which may involve monitoring, special imaging, or a biopsy referral with a trusted specialist.
Common Inquiries
How often should I be screened?
At least annually—and more frequently if you have elevated risk factors. We include a screening at comprehensive exams.
Does it hurt?
No. The screening is a quick visual and tactile exam. You may feel light pressure during palpation, but it should not be painful.
What if something looks suspicious?
We’ll discuss the finding, document images if helpful, and recommend monitoring or a biopsy referral based on current guidelines.
Who is at higher risk?
Tobacco or heavy alcohol use, HPV exposure, prolonged sun to the lips, history of oral cancer, and increasing age can elevate risk.
Make screening part of your routine. Call 717-687-6061 to schedule at Strasburg Dental Group in Strasburg, Pennsylvania.