Oral Cancer Screenings: 10 Questions Answered by Dr. Rad at 805 Dentistry

When it comes to oral health, most people focus on cavities, gum disease, or teeth whitening. But one area that often gets overlooked is oral cancer screening. At 805 Dentistry in Thousand Oaks, I believe prevention and early detection are key to protecting both your smile and your overall health. Oral cancer screenings are simple, quick, and potentially lifesaving.

Here are the 10 most common questions I hear from patients about oral cancer screenings, along with my answers.


1. What is an oral cancer screening?

An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless exam I perform during your dental visit to look for early signs of oral cancer. I check your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, palate, and throat for any unusual changes such as sores, red or white patches, lumps, or tissue abnormalities. The goal is early detection because oral cancer is most treatable when caught in its earliest stages.


2. Why are oral cancer screenings important?

Oral cancer can progress silently without obvious pain or symptoms in the early stages. By the time many patients notice a problem, the cancer may already be advanced. Regular screenings allow me to identify suspicious areas early, when treatment is simpler and success rates are much higher.


3. Who should get oral cancer screenings?

Every adult should have an oral cancer screening at least once a year. However, patients with higher risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, HPV infection, or a family history of cancer should be screened more frequently. At 805 Dentistry, I include screenings as part of every comprehensive dental exam.


4. What are the signs and symptoms of oral cancer?

Some warning signs include:

  • Persistent mouth sores that do not heal

  • White or red patches inside the mouth

  • Lumps or thickened tissue in the cheek or tongue

  • Chronic sore throat or difficulty swallowing

  • Numbness in the lips or tongue

  • Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite

If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an evaluation right away.


5. How is an oral cancer screening performed?

During the screening, I visually examine your mouth and palpate (gently feel) areas like the jaw, neck, and tongue for any abnormalities. In some cases, I may use special lights or rinses that highlight suspicious tissue. The process is completely painless and usually takes only a few minutes.


6. Does an oral cancer screening hurt?

No. Screenings are non-invasive and do not involve needles, cutting, or drilling. Most patients barely notice the exam, but the peace of mind it provides is invaluable.


7. How often should I get screened for oral cancer?

At minimum, you should be screened once a year, but I recommend that every patient receive a screening at every routine dental exam. Since you typically visit your dentist twice a year for cleanings, this ensures that any changes are caught as early as possible.


8. What happens if something unusual is found?

If I notice an area that looks suspicious, I may recommend additional diagnostic steps. This could include referring you to a specialist or suggesting a biopsy to determine whether the tissue is cancerous. Finding an abnormality does not always mean cancer, but it is always better to be safe and thorough.


9. Can oral cancer be prevented?

While not all cases can be prevented, you can greatly lower your risk by avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, protecting your lips from sun exposure, and maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular dental checkups and oral cancer screenings are also one of the best preventive tools available.


10. Why choose 805 Dentistry for oral cancer screenings in Thousand Oaks?

At 805 Dentistry, I combine advanced screening techniques with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. Every exam is customized to your health history and personal risk factors. My goal is not just to care for your teeth but to protect your overall health through preventive services like oral cancer screenings.


Final Thoughts from Dr. Rad

Oral cancer screenings save lives. A few minutes during your dental visit can provide early answers and peace of mind. If you have been searching for “oral cancer screening near me in Thousand Oaks” or want to learn more about early detection, I invite you to schedule a consultation with me today.

📍 805 Dentistry – Thousand Oaks, CA
 🌐 www.805Dentistry.com
 📞 Call us today to book your oral cancer screening appointment