Early Detection Saves Lives — Oral Cancer Screenings at Optimal Dental Care
Oral cancer is most treatable when caught early. At Optimal Dental Care in Artesia, CA, we include oral cancer screenings as part of our commitment to your overall health — because a thorough exam can make all the difference in early detection and successful treatment.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings at Optimal Dental Care Are So Important
At Optimal Dental Care, we care about more than just your teeth — we care about your life. Oral cancer is a serious condition that, when detected late, can be difficult to treat. But when identified early, the chances of successful treatment improve dramatically. That’s why our dentists in Artesia, CA perform oral cancer screenings to help catch warning signs as soon as possible.
During a screening, our team carefully examines the soft tissues of your mouth, including your gums, tongue, cheeks, lips, and the floor and roof of your mouth. We look for common warning signs such as white or red patches, unusual lesions, lumps, or any areas that appear abnormal. Symptoms patients sometimes notice on their own include difficulty swallowing, unexplained bleeding in the mouth, numbness, or swelling in the face or neck — all of which should be evaluated promptly.
The screening itself is quick, painless, and non-invasive, and it can be performed during your regular checkup. If anything concerning is found, our team will discuss next steps and refer you to the appropriate specialist right away. Early action is the most powerful tool we have against oral cancer, and Optimal Dental Care is here to help you stay ahead of it. Request an appointment today at our Artesia, CA office.
FAQs
What is an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is a visual and physical examination of the mouth, tongue, and surrounding tissues to look for early signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. It is a quick, painless, and non-invasive procedure performed by our dentists at Optimal Dental Care.
What are the warning signs of oral cancer?
Common signs include white or red patches or lesions inside the mouth, sores that don’t heal, lumps or thickening of the cheek tissue, difficulty chewing or swallowing, unexplained bleeding, and swelling in the face or neck. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Optimal Dental Care promptly.
Who should get an oral cancer screening?
We recommend oral cancer screenings for all adult patients, particularly those who use tobacco, consume alcohol regularly, have had significant sun exposure, or have a personal or family history of cancer. However, oral cancer can affect anyone, so routine screenings are beneficial for every patient.
How often should I be screened for oral cancer?
For most patients, an oral cancer screening is performed during your routine dental exam — typically once or twice a year. Patients with higher risk factors may be recommended for more frequent evaluations.
Does an oral cancer screening hurt?
Not at all. The screening is completely painless. Our dentist will visually inspect your mouth and gently feel for any abnormalities in the tissue. The entire process takes just a few minutes and requires no special preparation.
What happens if something abnormal is found during my screening?
If our team identifies an area of concern, we will discuss the findings with you and refer you to an appropriate specialist for further evaluation. Early referral and follow-up are critical to achieving the best possible outcome.
How do I schedule an oral cancer screening at Optimal Dental Care?
Simply request an appointment at our Artesia, CA office. Oral cancer screenings can be performed as part of your routine cleaning and exam — no separate visit required.