General and preventive dentistry
Build an individualized plan for exams, prevention and follow-up.
Read the guide →A brief exam with an important purpose
Oral cancer screening
An oral cancer examination is a visual and hands-on check of the mouth and nearby areas for changes that may need attention. It is painless and can be included in a dental visit, but no screening can rule out every cancer or diagnose a suspicious area by itself.
What the examination may include
The dentist or hygienist may look at the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, floor and roof of the mouth, throat and areas around the head and neck. They may feel for changes and ask about symptoms, duration and risk factors.
Changes that deserve prompt attention
Contact a dentist or medical professional about a sore, lump, thick area, red or white patch, unexplained bleeding or numbness, persistent throat symptoms, difficulty swallowing or speaking, or a change in how dentures fit—especially when it persists for two weeks.
Risk is not limited to one group
Tobacco and heavy alcohol use raise risk, and HPV is associated with many cancers at the back of the throat. Age and sun exposure can also matter. People without known risk factors can still develop disease, so share changes rather than waiting for a routine visit.
What happens if something looks unusual
Many mouth changes are not cancer. Depending on appearance, history and duration, the dentist may document and recheck the area, recommend a medical or dental specialist, or discuss testing such as a biopsy. Only appropriate diagnostic testing can determine what the tissue represents.
Understand the limits of screening tools
A standard visual and tactile examination remains important. Lights, dyes, brushes or other adjuncts have specific limitations and should not be presented as a definitive test. Ask what is being used, why and what follow-up would be needed for a finding.
Connected care
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Dental cleanings and exams
Understand the different roles of an examination and professional cleaning.
Read the guide →Night guards for teeth grinding
Learn how an appliance may protect teeth and where its limits apply.
Read the guide →Emergency dentistry
Know when to call the dental office and when to seek emergency medical care.
Read the guide →A plan you can understand
Connect findings to the next step
Ask the dentist or hygienist to explain the findings, alternatives, expected benefits, limitations and timing. Recommendations should reflect your examination rather than a one-size-fits-all schedule.
Explore all dental services →Confirm office availability
Services, clinicians and appointment availability may vary. Call your selected office before traveling. An online request is not a confirmed appointment.
Contact the office →Compare our locations →
01 / YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD OFFICE
Margate
100 FL-7, Suite 300, Margate, FL 33063(954) 532-127402 / YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD OFFICE
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
236 Commercial Boulevard, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL 33308(954) 568-8928Prefer our team to contact you?Request an appointment →
Your questions, answered
Does screening diagnose oral cancer?
No. Screening looks for changes that may need follow-up. Diagnosis may require a specialist assessment and tissue testing.
Is an oral cancer exam painful?
A routine visual and hands-on examination is generally painless and takes only a few minutes.
Should I wait for my next cleaning if I notice a sore?
No. Contact a dentist or medical professional about a persistent or concerning change rather than waiting for a routine visit.
Informed decisions
Plan your treatment and care
Restorative dentistry
Compare ways to repair teeth and replace missing teeth.
Explore your options →Dental implant cost factors
Know which stages and components to discuss in your estimate.
Explore your options →Dental implant recovery and maintenance
Prepare for healing, follow-up and long-term maintenance.
Explore your options →Get ready for your visit
Organize your paperwork, questions and next steps.
Independent patient resources
General education does not replace an examination, diagnosis or individual recommendation.