Oral Cancer Screening Lake Forest, CA
Oral cancer screenings can identify the signs of disease before it has spread. This may be beneficial to those in high-risk groups. Regular oral cancer screenings can give patients the advantage of treating cancer in the early stages when there is a higher chance for remission.
Oral cancer screenings are available at Stunning Smiles of Lake Forest in Lake Forest and the surrounding area. Early detection may make cancer treatment more effective. Call us at (949) 258-7433 to schedule an appointment today.
Why Have Regular Oral Cancer Screenings?
Regular oral cancer screenings can be as important as regular dental checkups. Fortunately, patients can ask to get both procedures done at the same time. As per the National Cancer Institute, oral cancer symptoms tend not to appear until the disease has spread. Early detection may make oral cancer easier to treat when the chances for remission are higher.
According to WebMD, everyone should have a dental checkup at least once a year. However, experts have yet to reach a consensus on how often patients should go in for an oral cancer screening. A dentist may be able to conduct a comprehensive exam to determine how frequently a patient should have screenings.
“Early detection may make oral cancer easier to treat when the chances for remission are higher.”
Groups at High Risk for Oral Cancer
Certain groups may benefit from regular oral cancer screenings more than others. Common risk factors include but are not limited to:
- A history of oral cancer
- Certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Regular consumption of a lot of alcohol
- Excessive amounts of time spent in the sun
- Tobacco use, in any form
Patients may find it beneficial to consult a professional about their medical history to better determine their risk for oral cancer.
“Some groups may benefit from regular oral cancer screenings more than others.”
Limitations of Oral Cancer Screenings
Although regular oral cancer screenings are integral to maintaining good health, Mayo Clinic points out that it may be difficult to detect abnormal cells through a simple visual exam. Thus, there is always a possibility that a small sign of cancer or precancerous lesion could go undetected.
A group of unusual cells does not always mean that the patient has cancer. Rather, the patient will have to undergo a biopsy to get a definitive answer. If it is cancerous, then early detection will afford the patient more treatment options.
While the evidence does not yet link screenings with reduced oral cancer deaths, regular screenings may help identify cancers early at a time when remission is more likely.
“While the evidence does not yet link screenings with reduced oral cancer deaths, regular screenings may help identify cancers early at a time when remission is more likely.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Oral Cancer Screening in Lake Forest, CA
When Would a Dentist Advise a Test?
An oral cancer screening is simple enough to be performed during every check-up, and the American Dental Association recommends a thorough evaluation of the oral cavity during a regular exam.
For most patients, a dentist will advise a routine dental visit every six months, so some form of oral cancer test may be administered twice yearly. Some dentists may conduct a more formalized oral screening at a different interval. For patients who have a history of oral cancer or who have significant oral cancer risk factors, a dentist may conduct more frequent oral screenings.
“For most patients, a dentist will advise a routine dental visit every six months, so some form of cancer screening may be administered twice yearly.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How frequently should I get an oral cancer screening?
Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer?
Q. What are the limits of oral cancer screenings?
Q. How often should a patient get an oral cancer screening?
Q. What happens after an oral cancer screening?
People Also Ask
Q. What should be included in an at home oral health routine?
What Happens After an Oral Cancer Screening?
After the dentist evaluates the mouth and surrounding structures for signs of oral cancer, the patient will be able to continue with their daily routine as usual, without restrictions. The dentist will discuss any potential areas of concern and may ask that the patient return to the office in a few weeks for a re-evaluation, to see if the areas have changed or resolved. The dentist will not be able to tell for sure if an area of focus is cancerous, so more tests may be needed. If the patient has been scheduled for a biopsy, that patient will receive further instructions about how to prepare.
“The dentist will discuss any potential areas of concern and may ask that the patient return to the office in a few weeks for a reevaluation, to see if the areas have changed or resolved.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How common is oral cancer?
A. According to the American Dental Association, more than 50,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. While this is intimidating, you can lower your risk of developing oral cancer by avoiding tobacco and alcohol. It is also wise to stay on top of oral health by following a regular check-up schedule.
Q. How much does drinking influence oral cancer?
A. The American Cancer Society notes that people who drink heavily are more likely to develop oral cancers than those with light or no alcohol intake. People who pair heavy drinking with heavy tobacco smoking increase their risk even further. The people who combine these activities have a risk of oral cancer that is 30 times higher than those who abstain from alcohol and tobacco.
Q. How can I prevent oral cancers?
A. The most important thing you can do to prevent the development of oral cancer is to avoid using tobacco products. Limiting your alcohol intake can also reduce your risk. Because of the association between oral cancers and HPV, it is also recommended that preteens get two doses of the HPV vaccine, as this could prevent oral cancers.
Q. What is a biopsy?
A. If the dentist identifies a suspicious area in the mouth during oral cancer screening, he or she may recommend a biopsy. A biopsy is a procedure that removes a small piece of tissue so that it can be examined more closely, by a pathologist. This may be done using several different methods, including a needle, a scalpel, or a specialized tool. Some dentists perform their own biopsies, and others coordinate with other types of healthcare professionals, such as otolaryngologists.
Q. Who is most at risk of developing oral cancer?
A. Besides those who drink heavily and use tobacco, those with certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) tend to develop it at higher rates. Also, men develop it at higher rates than women. Those with poor nutrition or who are overweight, are also at higher risk.
Scan here to view this page, Oral Cancer Screening, on mobile
Dental Terminology
Learn More Today
Regular oral cancer screenings may help stop the disease before it has the chance to spread. At Stunning Smiles of Lake Forest, we can help figure out the best preventative care plan for you. Call us at 949-258-7433 to schedule an appointment today.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business and website security
- Stunning Smiles of Lake Forest was established in 2014.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Orange County, and Los Angeles County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Lake Forest, Irvine, San Clemente, Laguna Niguel, and Yorba Linda
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Stunning Smiles of Lake Forest on mobile
Back to top of Oral Cancer Screening
Related Posts
Gum Disease: 5 Things You Need To Know
Despite the prevalence of gum disease, not every patient is aware of the risks and implications of this condition. By acquiring enough information about this ailment, you will be able to take the appropriate measures to curb and prevent its occurrence.In this article, you will learn about the important facts everyone needs to know about…
A Dentist In Lake Forest Can Treat Gingivitis
As a dentist in Lake Forest, we are intimately aware that there is a rising problem with gingivitis in the United States today. Too many adults are finding themselves having to deal with bloody toothbrushes, swollen gums, and some of the other symptoms that come with contracting gingivitis. While swollen or bleeding gums are a…
Laser Dentistry In Our Lake Forest Dentist Office Can Make A Laser Root Canal Far More Comfortable
One of the most powerful advancements in laser dentistry is the fact that we can now use lasers to perform the standard root canal operation. While most people prefer to refer to a root canal procedure such as root canal therapy, we know that many of our patients are terrified at the prospect of needing…
Protect Your Smile With The Help Of A Preventive Dentist
A preventive dentist is a dental health professional whose services include procedures to protect the teeth and gums from developing problems. This dentist aims to keep your teeth healthy and appealing for the longest possible time.Major dental disorders are avoidable with preventive dental treatment. Preventing future problems and stress from oral health issues early could…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Stunning Smiles of Lake Forest on mobile