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Oral Cancer Screening in Normandale
A quick look at the mouth, tongue and throat can catch unusual changes early. Normandale residents can learn what screening involves at our Port Dover office.
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See every dental service for NormandaleChecking the soft tissues
Screening looks for changes that are easier to address when found early.
Oral cancer can develop on the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor of the mouth, palate and throat. Early changes may be painless and easy to overlook. An oral cancer screening is a visual and physical examination of these tissues to look for patches, lumps, sores or other changes that might need further investigation. Most findings turn out to be harmless, but checking matters.
Normandale residents can have their soft tissues examined as part of routine visits at our Port Dover office or when they notice something unusual. The dentist explains what is seen and, when appropriate, recommends follow-up or referral.
Risk factors
Anyone can be affected, but some factors raise risk.
Common risk factors
Tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, certain strains of human papillomavirus and a history of previous cancer increase risk. Age is also a factor. However, oral cancer can occur in people with no known risk factors, which is why regular soft tissue checks are recommended for all adults.
Sun exposure and the lips
Prolonged sun exposure can contribute to cancer of the lips. People who spend considerable time outdoors, including near the water, may want to use lip balm with sun protection. Mention any persistent changes on your lips, such as crusting, scaling or sores that do not heal.
Signs to report
Know which changes deserve attention.
Changes you might notice
Red or white patches, sores that do not heal within about two weeks, lumps or thickening, numbness, persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and a feeling that something is caught in the throat can be worth reporting. Unexplained bleeding or loose teeth without gum disease may also need assessment.
When to call
If you notice a change that lasts longer than a couple of weeks, contact the office rather than waiting for your next checkup. Many mouth sores are caused by minor injuries or infections, but persistent changes should be examined to rule out more serious causes.
The screening
Screening is quick and painless.
Visual examination
The dentist looks at your lips, inner cheeks, gums, tongue, floor of the mouth, palate and the back of the throat. You may be asked to stick out your tongue and move it side to side. A light and mirror help the dentist see areas that are hard to view.
Feeling for lumps
The dentist gently feels your neck, jaw and the tissues inside your mouth for lumps or swelling. You will be told what is being checked and why. If anything unusual is found, the dentist will explain what it might be and recommend the next step.
Follow-up
Most findings are benign, but some need closer evaluation.
Monitoring or rechecking
Many changes are harmless and caused by irritation, minor trauma or infection. The dentist may suggest rechecking the area in a couple of weeks after removing a possible cause, such as a sharp tooth edge. Photos may be taken to compare changes over time.
Referral for further assessment
If a change looks suspicious or persists, the dentist may refer you to a specialist for further assessment, which might include a biopsy. A referral does not mean cancer has been found. It ensures the area is properly evaluated by someone with additional expertise.
Planning your appointment
Screening during visits from Normandale
Soft tissue checks are commonly part of routine exams at our Port Dover office. If you notice a sore, patch or lump between visits, call to arrange an earlier appointment.
Let the team know about tobacco use, alcohol and any previous cancer history so risk can be assessed accurately.
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
Oral cancer screening questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Is oral cancer screening part of a regular checkup?
Examining the soft tissues is commonly part of routine exams. Ask the dentist if you would like more detail about what is checked.
Does screening hurt?
No. It involves looking at and gently feeling the tissues of your mouth and neck. It takes only a few minutes.
What if the dentist finds something unusual?
Most findings are harmless. The dentist may suggest monitoring or a recheck. Persistent or suspicious changes may lead to a referral for further evaluation.
I do not smoke. Do I still need screening?
Yes. Oral cancer can occur without known risk factors. Regular checks help catch changes early for everyone.
How long should a mouth sore last before I call?
Sores that do not heal within about two weeks should be checked. Call sooner if a sore is painful, growing or accompanied by other symptoms.
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