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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Oral Cancer Screening in St. Williams
A quick look at the lips, tongue, cheeks and throat can flag tissue changes worth checking. St. Williams residents can learn how screening works at our Port Dover office.
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Caring for St. Williams patients at our office in Port Dover
Every dental service for St. WilliamsA routine safeguard
Screening looks for changes that deserve a closer look.
Oral cancer screening is a visual and physical examination of the soft tissues in and around the mouth. The dentist looks for sores, patches, lumps or colour changes that may need monitoring or further investigation. Most findings turn out to be harmless, but checking regularly helps identify concerns early, when they are often easier to manage.
For St. Williams residents, screening is typically part of a regular dental exam at our Port Dover office. If you have noticed a sore that will not heal or another change in your mouth, you do not need to wait for a checkup; call to arrange an assessment.
Risk factors
Some factors increase the risk of oral cancer.
Lifestyle factors
Tobacco use in any form and heavy alcohol consumption are significant risk factors, and the risk is higher when they are combined. Prolonged sun exposure increases the risk of lip cancer, which is worth remembering for anyone who spends long hours working or relaxing outdoors.
Other contributing factors
Infection with certain types of human papillomavirus is linked to some throat cancers. Age, a weakened immune system and a history of previous cancers may also play a role. Oral cancer can occur in people without obvious risk factors, which is why routine screening is useful for everyone.
Signs to watch
Pay attention to changes that do not go away.
Changes in the mouth
A sore or ulcer that does not heal within about two weeks, white or red patches, a lump or thickening, persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and numbness in the mouth or lips are worth having checked. Changes in how dentures fit can sometimes signal tissue changes too.
When to call
Many mouth sores are caused by minor injuries or irritation and heal on their own. If something persists or you are unsure, call the office. Describe what you have noticed and how long it has been present. The dentist can examine it and advise on next steps.
The screening
The screening is quick and painless.
Visual examination
The dentist examines your lips, gums, inner cheeks, tongue, floor of the mouth, palate and throat using light and a mirror. You may be asked to stick out your tongue and move it side to side. Dentures or other removable appliances will be taken out so all surfaces can be seen.
Feeling for lumps
The dentist may gently feel your neck, jaw and the inside of your mouth for lumps or areas of tenderness. The process takes only a few minutes. If anything unusual is found, the dentist will explain what they see and whether monitoring or further investigation is advisable.
If something is found
A finding is not a diagnosis.
Monitoring and follow-up
Many unusual areas are benign and caused by irritation, infection or injury. The dentist may suggest removing a source of irritation and rechecking in a short time. Photographs may be taken to track changes. Attend the follow-up visit so the area can be reassessed.
Referral for further testing
If an area is concerning or does not resolve, the dentist may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation, which may include a biopsy. A referral does not mean cancer has been found. Ask the dentist to explain the reason for the referral and what to expect.
Planning your appointment
Screening as part of care from St. Williams.
Oral cancer screening is usually included in regular exams at our Port Dover office. If you have a specific concern, call to describe it and arrange an assessment sooner.
Mention tobacco or alcohol use honestly and note how long any sore or patch has been present, as both help the dentist assess risk.
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 regular dental exams. People with higher risk factors may benefit from more frequent checks. The dentist can recommend an appropriate schedule.
Does the screening hurt?
No. It involves looking at and gently feeling the tissues in and around your mouth. It takes only a few minutes and is usually part of a routine exam.
I do not smoke. Do I still need screening?
Yes. Oral cancer can occur in people without obvious risk factors. Routine screening helps identify changes early regardless of lifestyle.
What if the dentist finds something unusual?
Many findings are harmless. The dentist may recheck the area after a short time or refer you for further evaluation. A referral is a precaution, not a diagnosis.
Can I check my own mouth?
Yes. Look for sores, patches or lumps and note anything that does not heal within about two weeks. Self-checks are helpful but do not replace professional screening.
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