Routine checks for oral changes
Oral Cancer Screenings in Nanaimo
Oral cancer screenings are an important part of routine dental care. These screenings allow the Dentist to check the mouth, lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, roof and floor of the mouth, and surrounding oral tissues for unusual changes.
At Wentworth Dental, our Nanaimo Dental Clinic includes oral tissue checks as part of preventive dental visits. While many oral changes are not cancerous, it is still important to have sores, lumps, red or white patches, rough areas, or areas that do not heal properly assessed by a dental professional.
Oral cancer can be easier to manage when concerning changes are found early. During your visit, our team may review your medical history, lifestyle factors, symptoms, and any areas of concern before completing a visual and physical examination.
Oral Cancer Screenings at Wentworth Dental
Some symptoms of oral cancer can look similar to less serious oral health concerns, which is why a professional evaluation is important. If you notice a sore that does not heal, a lump, thickened area, rough patch, unexplained bleeding, numbness, or ongoing pain in the mouth or lips, it should be checked.
Other signs may include red or white patches, difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue. These symptoms do not always mean cancer is present, but they should not be ignored. Wentworth Dental can assess visible changes and recommend next steps, including follow-up with a medical doctor when needed.
Prevention also plays an important role in oral health. Avoiding tobacco products, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet, protecting the lips from sun exposure, and keeping up with regular dental visits can help reduce risk and support early detection. For questions about routine screenings or preventive dental care, contact Wentworth Dental to book an appointment with our Nanaimo Dental Clinic.
Signs That Should Be Checked
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a routine examination of the mouth and surrounding tissues to check for unusual changes. The Dentist may look at the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor and roof of the mouth, throat area, and nearby tissues. At Wentworth Dental, oral cancer screenings are part of preventive dental care and help identify areas that may need monitoring, further evaluation, or referral to a medical professional.
Why are oral cancer screenings important?
Oral cancer screenings are important because some early tissue changes may not cause pain or obvious symptoms. Regular dental visits allow the Dentist to check areas that patients may not easily see on their own. While many oral changes are harmless, early evaluation can help identify concerns sooner and support better outcomes if follow-up care is needed. Screenings are a simple but valuable part of preventive dental care.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Symptoms that should be checked include red or white patches, sores that do not heal, lumps, thickened tissue, rough spots, unexplained bleeding, numbness, pain, or difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue. These signs can be caused by many conditions, not only cancer, but they should still be assessed if they persist or seem unusual. Contact Wentworth Dental if you notice changes in your mouth.
Who has a higher risk of oral cancer?
Risk factors may include tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, significant sun exposure to the lips, certain types of HPV, a previous history of oral cancer, or a family history of related concerns. However, oral tissue changes can happen in people without obvious risk factors as well. This is why routine screenings are important for all patients, not only those who use tobacco or have known medical risks.
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
Oral cancer screenings are commonly included during routine dental exams. The right schedule depends on your oral health, risk factors, and any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you notice a sore, lump, patch, or change that does not improve, do not wait for your next regular cleaning. Contact Wentworth Dental so our team can assess the area and recommend appropriate next steps.
If you have noticed a sore, lump, patch, or unusual change in your mouth, Wentworth Dental can provide a careful oral tissue screening and help guide your next step.
