Supporting the health of your mouth and your “total health” with proactive oral cancer screenings
Nearly 1,500 new cases of oral and pharyngeal cancer will be diagnosed in Illinois this year. While that number may seem alarming, cancers of the mouth and throat—like many others—have a high cure rate when detected early. These cancers become far more difficult to treat once they have spread to other areas of the body.
At City Family Dental in Bolingbrook, Dr. Sneha Naik understands the critical role early detection plays in protecting both your oral health and overall well-being. That’s why we make oral cancer screenings a top priority during your routine visits—because safeguarding your smile means more than just clean teeth.
How do you screen for these cancers?
Dr. Naik carefully checks for abnormalities or warning signs that could indicate precancerous or cancerous lesions. She identifies these potential concerns through both visual inspection and touch, a method known as palpation. Screenings are seamlessly and conveniently incorporated into your routine checkups.
We also take note of—and discuss—any changes since your last visit. Our team continuously monitors not just your teeth and gums, but all areas of your mouth. This comprehensive approach allows us to detect and respond to any concerning developments early, ensuring your oral health is consistently protected.
Oral cancer can be life-threatening, but when caught early, it’s highly treatable. Most people don’t notice the warning signs like sores, red or white patches, or lumps that don’t go away. An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless exam where your dentist checks your mouth, tongue, throat, and neck for any abnormalities. In just a few minutes, your dentist looks for unusual tissue changes and may feel for lumps or swelling. Finding oral cancer early makes treatment easier and more successful. Don’t wait for symptoms. Ask about oral cancer screening at your next dental visit. Your health starts with prevention. Schedule your screening today.
What changes might raise concerns?
Some of the most common signs include red sores that develop on the horseshoe-shaped floor of the mouth, as well as on the front and sides of the tongue. We may also observe whitish or pinkish patches that fail to heal, or persistent sores that bleed easily. Leukoplakia, characterized by white or gray raised lesions that feel firm, can appear anywhere in the mouth. If Dr. Naik detects any suspicious lumps, bumps, or thickened tissues in your mouth, neck, or face, she may recommend further evaluation.
Can you always see and feel these problems?
Our advanced digital imaging and diagnostic technologies help detect abnormalities that cannot be seen with the naked eye or felt by touch. It’s important to understand that cancers don’t always present as visible changes, lumps, or swelling. Please contact us immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Unexplained pain or numbness
- Frequent sore throats or hoarseness
- Sudden difficulty swallowing
- Slurred speech or other changes in speech
- A persistent sensation of something stuck in your throat
- Ongoing ear pain
- Jaw stiffness
Oral Cancer Screening FAQs
What is an oral cancer screening, and why is it important?
An oral cancer screening is a brief, painless examination performed by a dental professional to check for unusual changes in the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat. The goal is to identify early warning signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. Detecting concerns early greatly improves treatment options and outcomes. Regular screenings are an important preventive step, even when no symptoms are present.
Who should consider getting an oral cancer screening?
Everyone can benefit from routine screenings as part of preventive dental care. Certain factors, such as frequent alcohol consumption, HPV exposure, tobacco use, or increasing age, may raise risk. Even individuals without known risk factors should be screened regularly, as oral cancer can develop without obvious warning signs. A dentist can provide personalized recommendations based on health history.
What can I expect during an oral cancer screening at City Family Dental?
The screening typically includes a visual inspection and gentle examination of oral tissues. Your dentist looks for changes in color, texture, or structure and may feel areas of the jaw and neck. The process is non-invasive, comfortable, and usually completed in just a few minutes during a routine visit. Patient comfort and clear communication are always prioritized.
Are there symptoms I should be aware of between screenings?
Certain changes should be evaluated if they persist. These may include sores that do not heal, lumps, thickened areas, or difficulty chewing or swallowing. Ongoing hoarseness or unexplained numbness can also be concerns. Reporting changes promptly allows early assessment and reduces the chance of delayed diagnosis.
How can I lower my risk of developing oral cancer?
Lifestyle choices play a significant role in risk reduction. Avoiding tobacco products, limiting alcohol intake, and maintaining a nutritious diet support overall oral health. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits also help identify changes early. Preventive care and awareness work together to reduce long-term risk.
Is there a cost associated with oral cancer screenings, and does insurance cover them?
In many cases, oral cancer screenings are included in a comprehensive dental exam. Coverage varies by insurance plan, and some plans may consist of screenings at no additional cost. Patients are encouraged to check with their insurance provider or City Family Dental for specific coverage details and any applicable fees.
What happens if my screening shows an abnormal area?
An abnormal finding does not automatically mean cancer. Your dentist may recommend monitoring the area, additional testing, or referral to a specialist for further evaluation. Clear guidance and support are provided throughout the process. Early follow-up helps ensure appropriate care and peace of mind.
How long does an oral cancer screening take?
The screening itself usually takes only a few minutes. It is often performed during a routine dental visit without extending appointment time. This efficiency makes regular screenings easy to include in ongoing preventive care.
Can oral cancer screenings detect issues outside the mouth?
Screenings focus primarily on oral tissues but may include evaluation of the jaw, neck, and throat areas. This broader assessment helps identify abnormalities that may not be immediately visible inside the mouth. Comprehensive evaluation supports early detection efforts.
Why are regular screenings important even without symptoms?
Many early-stage conditions do not cause pain or noticeable changes. Regular screenings help identify subtle issues before symptoms develop. Early detection often leads to less invasive treatment and better outcomes, making routine screening a vital part of preventive dental care.
How often should I get screened?
Great question! Our approach always centers on your individual needs, as Dr. Naik and our team pride ourselves on delivering personalized care. We take the time to get to know you, allowing us to identify any risk factors that may require more frequent screenings. These risks for oropharyngeal cancers include smoking, vaping, nicotine-containing products, excessive alcohol use, sun/UV exposure, and nutritional challenges. In fact, approximately three-fourths of these cancers are linked to modifiable behaviors. At City Family Dental, we work closely with you to reduce or modify these risks. It’s truly rewarding for us to support the health of your smile and your overall well-being!
Contact our Bolingbrook team, serving Plainfield, Aurora, and Naperville, IL, at (630) 489-6323 today.
