Patient video
Welcoming and Wonderful Practice
A patient shares the welcoming atmosphere and positive experience they found at our Port Dover office.
★★★★★
Port Dover Family Dentistry
Oral Cancer Screening in Peacock Point
A quick screening checks the mouth, lips and throat for unusual changes. Peacock Point patients, including those spending sunny summers outdoors, can ask in Port Dover.
New patients welcomeCDCP accepted
Let’s get you smiling
Book an appointment
Tell us how we can help. Our team will follow up to confirm a time.
Caring for Peacock Point residents and cottagers at our Port Dover office
Browse every dental service for Peacock PointEarly detection matters
A few minutes of checking can catch changes early.
Oral cancer screening is a visual and physical examination of the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, palate and throat, along with the neck and jaw. The dentist looks and feels for sores, patches, lumps or other changes that could need further investigation. Most findings turn out to be harmless, but early detection of anything concerning can make a significant difference.
Peacock Point residents and seasonal cottagers can have a screening at our Port Dover office, often as part of a routine examination. If you spend long summer days outdoors on the water, mention it, since sun exposure is a risk factor for lip changes.
Risk factors
Know the factors that raise risk.
Common risk factors
Tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus infection, prolonged sun exposure to the lips and a history of previous oral cancer increase risk. Age is also a factor. However, oral cancer can occur in people without obvious risk factors, which is why routine screening is recommended for adults regardless of history.
Symptoms to report
Tell the dentist about sores that do not heal within a couple of weeks, red or white patches, lumps, numbness, persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, ear pain on one side or a feeling that something is caught in the throat. These symptoms are often caused by other conditions but should be checked.
The screening
Screening is quick and painless.
Visual examination
The dentist examines the lips, the inside of the cheeks, the gums, the roof and floor of the mouth and all surfaces of the tongue. You may be asked to stick out your tongue and move it side to side. A light and mirror help the dentist see clearly. Remove dentures or other appliances so all areas are visible.
Physical examination
The dentist gently feels the tissues in your mouth, as well as the neck, jaw and area under the chin, checking for lumps, tenderness or unusual texture. Lymph nodes are checked for swelling. The entire screening usually takes only a few minutes and does not involve any discomfort.
Findings
Most findings are not cancer, but some need follow-up.
Monitoring minor changes
Many sores and patches are caused by irritation, infection or minor injury. The dentist may recommend removing the cause, such as a rough tooth or denture edge, and checking again in a couple of weeks. Photos may be taken to compare changes. If an area heals, no further action may be needed.
Further investigation
If a change persists or looks concerning, the dentist may recommend a biopsy or referral to a specialist for further evaluation. This does not mean cancer is present, but it helps provide a definitive answer. Ask the dentist to explain the reason for referral and what the next steps will involve.
Prevention
Lower your risk and stay alert.
Lifestyle changes
Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol and protecting your lips from sun with a lip balm containing SPF can reduce risk. Discuss the HPV vaccine with your physician if relevant. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables supports overall health. These steps matter whether you spend summers on the beach or live by the lake year-round.
Self-checks between visits
Between dental visits, look at your mouth in a mirror occasionally. Check for sores, patches or lumps and feel your neck for swelling. If something new persists for more than a couple of weeks, contact the office rather than waiting for your next routine appointment. Early attention is always the safest approach.
Planning your appointment
Booking a screening from Peacock Point.
Contact our Port Dover office to book an examination that includes oral cancer screening. If you have noticed a specific sore or patch, mention it so the dentist can examine it carefully.
Let the team know about tobacco or alcohol use and significant sun exposure, and bring a list of medications.
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.
How often should I be screened?
Screening is often part of routine dental exams. The dentist may recommend more frequent checks if you have risk factors such as tobacco use. Report any persistent changes between visits rather than waiting for your next appointment.
Does screening hurt?
No. Screening involves looking at and gently feeling the tissues in your mouth and neck. It is quick and painless. Let the dentist know if any area feels tender during the examination.
What if the dentist finds something?
Most findings are harmless and may be monitored. If a change persists or looks concerning, the dentist may recommend a biopsy or specialist referral to provide a clear diagnosis.
Can sun exposure affect my lips?
Yes. Prolonged sun exposure is a risk factor for lip cancer. Use a lip balm with SPF when outdoors, especially on the water, and report any persistent sores or changes on your lips.
Can I check my own mouth?
Yes. Look in a mirror for sores, patches or lumps and feel your neck for swelling. Contact the dentist if something new persists for more than a couple of weeks.
Preventive checks for Peacock Point
Additional Services →Dental Exams and Checkups →
Routine exams catch small problems before they grow. Peacock Point residents and cottagers can book a checkup at our Port Dover office and keep records in one place.
Special Care Dentistry →
Patients with medical, developmental or sensory needs deserve care planned around them. Peacock Point families can discuss individual support at our Port Dover office.