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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Oral Cancer Screening in Nixon
A quick look and feel of the mouth and neck can catch changes early. Nixon residents can learn what screening involves, warning signs and when to call sooner.
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Serving patients from Nixon and the surrounding countryside at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for NixonAn important routine check
Early changes in the mouth are easier to address when found sooner.
Oral cancer screening is a careful examination of the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor and roof of the mouth, throat and the neck for unusual changes. It is usually part of a routine dental exam and takes only a few minutes. Most findings turn out to be harmless, but early detection of anything concerning allows timely follow-up and referral.
Nixon residents receive soft-tissue checks as part of regular exams at our Port Dover office. If you notice something unusual between visits, such as a sore that will not heal, you can call to arrange an earlier look. The dentist will explain any findings and recommend next steps calmly and clearly.
Know the signs
Some changes deserve prompt attention.
Changes to watch for
Watch for a sore or ulcer that does not heal within about two weeks, red or white patches, a lump or thickening, persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, numbness in the mouth or lips, or a change in how dentures fit. Most of these have harmless causes, but persistent changes should be checked. Make a note of when you first noticed them and whether they have changed.
Risk factors to mention
Tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, frequent sun exposure to the lips and certain viral infections such as HPV are among the factors associated with higher risk. Let the dentist know about these, as well as any history of cancer. This information helps guide how closely the dentist monitors certain areas, though anyone can develop oral cancer.
The screening
A thorough check takes only a few minutes.
Looking at the mouth
The dentist examines the inside of your mouth using a light and mirror. You may be asked to stick out your tongue and move it side to side so the edges and underside can be seen. Dentures or other removable appliances are usually taken out so the tissues beneath can be checked. The exam is painless and quick.
Feeling the neck and jaw
The dentist gently feels the neck, under the jaw and around the face for lumps, tenderness or swollen lymph nodes. They also check the lips and the floor of the mouth by touch. If anything feels unusual, the dentist will explain what they noticed and whether monitoring or further evaluation is recommended for that area.
If something is found
A finding is not a diagnosis.
Monitoring a change
Many changes in the mouth are caused by irritation, infection or minor injury. If a spot looks unclear, the dentist may suggest rechecking it in a couple of weeks to see if it resolves. You might be asked to avoid an irritant, such as a sharp tooth edge or ill-fitting denture, in the meantime. Keep the follow-up appointment even if it improves.
Referral for further evaluation
If a change persists or looks concerning, the dentist may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation, which may include a biopsy. A referral does not mean you have cancer. It is a way to get a clear answer. Ask the dentist to explain why a referral is suggested and what to expect at the next step.
Self-checks
You can help by knowing what is normal for you.
Looking at your own mouth
Once a month, use a mirror and good light to look at your lips, gums, cheeks, tongue and the roof of your mouth. Feel your neck and under your jaw for lumps. Knowing what is normal for you makes it easier to notice changes. Call the dental office if you see or feel something new that lasts more than two weeks.
Reducing risk
Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol and using lip balm with sunscreen can help reduce risk. Keep regular dental exams so a professional checks your mouth periodically. If you wear dentures, have them checked for fit, since constant rubbing can irritate tissues. Healthy habits benefit both your mouth and your overall wellbeing. Working outdoors often makes lip protection especially worthwhile.
Planning your appointment
Screening during your visits from Nixon.
Oral cancer screening is part of regular exams at our Port Dover office. If you notice a sore, lump or patch that does not heal within two weeks, call to arrange an earlier assessment.
Bring notes about when you first noticed any change and whether it has grown, shrunk or become painful since you first saw it.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Screening questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
How often should I be screened for oral cancer?
Soft-tissue checks are typically part of each routine dental exam. People with higher risk factors may be monitored more closely. If you notice a persistent change between visits, call the office rather than waiting for your next appointment.
Does oral cancer screening hurt?
No. The screening involves looking at and gently feeling the tissues of your mouth, face and neck. It is quick and painless, and it is usually done as part of your regular dental examination without any extra preparation.
What does it mean if the dentist finds a spot?
Most spots have harmless causes, such as irritation or infection. The dentist may recheck it after a short time or recommend further evaluation if it persists. A finding is a reason to follow up, not a diagnosis.
Can non-smokers get oral cancer?
Yes. Tobacco is a major risk factor, but oral cancer can also occur in people who do not smoke, including in connection with certain viral infections. Regular screening is worthwhile for everyone, whatever their habits or history.
Should I check my own mouth?
Yes. A monthly self-check with a mirror can help you notice changes early. Look for sores, patches or lumps and feel your neck. Call the office if something new lasts more than two weeks or keeps returning.
Exams that include soft-tissue checks
Additional Services →Dental Exams and Checkups →
A routine checkup looks at teeth, gums, bite and soft tissues. Nixon residents can learn what is examined, when X-rays are used and how often to come back.
Special Care Dentistry →
People with medical, developmental or cognitive needs deserve dental care planned around them. Nixon families can learn how to share needs and plan visits.