Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer can develop quietly, often with few early symptoms. A routine screening is a quick, non-invasive way to look for changes in your mouth that deserve a closer look. At Edgemont Dental in Southwest Edmonton, an oral cancer screening is included with your exam at no extra charge, and it is something we keep an eye on at every regular checkup.
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a visual and hands-on exam of your mouth and the surrounding areas. Your dentist looks for anything unusual, such as sores that do not heal, red or white patches, lumps or changes in colour or texture. Screening does not diagnose cancer on its own. If something looks unusual, your dentist will explain next steps, which may include monitoring the area or referring you for further testing.
What Happens During Your Screening
- Your dentist checks your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, the floor and roof of your mouth, and your throat area.
- They feel the area under your jaw and the sides of your neck for lumps or swelling.
- They ask about any changes you have noticed, such as soreness, difficulty swallowing or numbness.
- If anything needs attention, we explain what we saw and what to do next.
The screening takes only a few minutes, and it is comfortable and non-invasive.
Why Early Detection Matters
When changes in the mouth are found early, there are generally more treatment options. Regular dental visits give your dentist the chance to notice small changes over time, because we see your mouth consistently and know what is normal for you.
Who Should Have an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is appropriate for adults of all ages as part of regular dental care. It is especially worth discussing with your dentist if you use tobacco, drink alcohol regularly, have had significant sun exposure to your lips, or have noticed a sore or patch in your mouth that has not gone away. Oral cancer can also affect younger adults, so it is wise to mention any concerns, whatever your age.
Signs to Mention to Your Dentist
- A sore or ulcer that does not heal within a couple of weeks
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck
- Ongoing soreness in the mouth or throat
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing or moving the tongue or jaw
- Numbness in the mouth or lips
These signs are often caused by something minor, but they are worth having checked.
Before Your Visit
- Make a note of any sore, patch, lump or change you have noticed and when it began.
- Tell us about tobacco or alcohol use and any health changes, so your dentist can plan your exam.
- Brush and floss as usual. No special preparation is needed.
After Your Screening
- You can return to normal activities straight away. There is no recovery time.
- If your dentist notes an area to watch, they will explain how and when it will be rechecked.
- Call us if you notice a sore, patch or lump that has not healed in a couple of weeks.
Screening as Part of Your Regular Dental Care
At Edgemont Dental, oral cancer screening is built into our exams at no extra charge, alongside digital x-rays, a gum health assessment and an intraoral camera review for new patients. We direct bill most major insurance providers, and we offer evening appointments Monday to Thursday and Saturday appointments on alternating weeks to make it easy to fit in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an oral cancer screening painful?
No. It is a gentle exam using visual inspection and light touch, and it only takes a few minutes.
How often should I be screened?
Screening is done as part of your regular checkups. Your dentist can tell you how often is right for you.
Do I need to book a separate appointment?
No. We include screening in our exams and watch for changes at your regular checkups.
What happens if you find something unusual?
We will explain what we saw, whether we recommend monitoring it, and if needed refer you for further assessment. We will never leave you guessing about next steps.
Does an oral cancer screening cost extra?
No. Oral cancer screening is included with your exam at no extra charge.
Book Your Exam in Edmonton
Call (780) 761-7070 or book online to schedule your exam at 20036 Lessard Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T6M 0T9.