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Oral Cancer Screening in Walsingham
A sore that will not heal or a new patch in the mouth deserves a look. Walsingham patients can learn what oral cancer screening involves and what happens if something is found.
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Serving Walsingham households from our Port Dover office
See every dental service for WalsinghamA careful look
Screening looks for changes that deserve closer attention.
Oral cancer screening is a visual and physical check of the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, palate, floor of the mouth and neck. The dentist looks for sores, patches, lumps or areas of colour change that could need further investigation. Most findings turn out to be harmless, but catching unusual changes early gives the best chance of effective treatment.
For Walsingham patients, an oral cancer screening is usually part of a regular exam at our Port Dover office. If you have noticed something new in your mouth, you can also call to arrange a visit sooner. The dentist will explain what they see and whether monitoring or referral is the right next step.
Risk factors
Knowing your risks helps guide screening.
Tobacco, alcohol and sun exposure
Smoking, chewing tobacco and heavy alcohol use significantly increase the risk of oral cancer, especially when combined. Long-term sun exposure raises the risk of lip cancer, which is relevant for anyone who spends a lot of time working or relaxing outdoors. Sharing your habits honestly helps the dentist assess your risk.
HPV and other factors
Infection with certain types of human papillomavirus is linked to cancers at the back of the mouth and throat. Age, a weakened immune system and a previous history of oral cancer also matter. Oral cancer can occur in people without obvious risk factors, which is why screening is offered to adults generally.
The screening
The check is quick and painless.
Looking inside the mouth
The dentist uses a light and mirror to examine every surface inside your mouth. They may gently hold your tongue with gauze to see its sides and underside. Areas that look red, white, rough or ulcerated are noted. If you wear dentures, you will be asked to remove them so the tissues underneath can be checked.
Feeling the jaw and neck
The dentist also feels the lymph nodes in your neck and under your jaw for lumps or tenderness. They may check your lips and the inside of your cheeks by touch. The whole process usually takes just a few minutes. Let the dentist know about any area you have noticed that feels different.
If something is found
Most findings are not cancer, but some need follow-up.
Monitoring a suspicious area
Many sores and patches are caused by irritation, infection or injury and heal on their own. The dentist may ask you to return in a couple of weeks to see whether an area has changed. Photos or notes help compare. If an irritant like a sharp tooth or denture edge is involved, it may be adjusted.
Referral for further testing
If an area does not heal or looks concerning, the dentist may refer you to a specialist for further assessment, which can include a biopsy. A referral does not mean cancer has been found. It means a closer look is needed. The dentist will explain why the referral is suggested and what to expect.
Self-checks
You can help by watching for changes.
Know what is normal for you
Once a month, look inside your mouth with good light and a mirror. Check your lips, gums, cheeks, tongue and the roof and floor of your mouth. Feel your neck for lumps. Knowing what your mouth normally looks like makes it easier to notice something new.
Changes to report
Contact the office if you have a sore, lump or patch that lasts more than two weeks, unexplained bleeding, numbness, difficulty swallowing or a persistent hoarse voice. These symptoms do not necessarily mean cancer, but they should be checked. Quitting tobacco and limiting alcohol reduce your risk.
Planning your appointment
Bringing a concern to Port Dover
If you have noticed a new spot, lump or sore, Walsingham patients can call our Port Dover office and describe it. The team can advise whether to wait for your next exam or come in sooner.
Note when you first noticed the change and whether it has grown, bled or become painful. 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
Screening questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Is oral cancer screening painful?
No. It involves a visual check and gentle touch of the tissues in your mouth and neck. It takes only a few minutes during a regular exam.
How often should I be screened?
Screening is typically done at routine dental exams. People with higher risk may be checked more carefully. The dentist will advise based on your history.
What does a suspicious area look like?
It may be a red or white patch, a sore that does not heal, a lump or a rough area. Many such findings are harmless, but persistent changes should be assessed.
Does a referral mean I have cancer?
No. A referral means a closer look is needed, often including a biopsy. Many referred areas turn out to be benign. The dentist will explain the reason for referral.
Can non-smokers get oral cancer?
Yes. While tobacco greatly increases risk, oral cancer can affect people without known risk factors. That is why screening is part of regular adult exams.
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