Early Detection, Lifesaving Care
At Park Hill Smile, we believe prevention and early detection are just as important as treatment. Oral cancer screening is a quick, painless part of your routine dental exam that can identify abnormalities before they become serious. Conveniently located in Denver, CO, our practice serves patients from Park Hill, Central Park, Lowry, City Park, Montclair, and nearby neighborhoods who value proactive, comprehensive dental care.
Why Oral Cancer Screening Matters
Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, and other areas of the mouth. Caught early, it has a much higher rate of successful treatment. Unfortunately, early signs are often subtle and easy to miss without a professional exam.
Regular screenings can:
- Detect cancerous and precancerous changes before symptoms appear
- Improve treatment outcomes and survival rates
- Identify other oral health concerns that may require follow-up
- Give peace of mind between visits
Our Preventive Philosophy
Dr. Thomas Gent and our team include oral cancer screening as part of your comprehensive dental exam and cleaning. We believe that checking for signs of disease is just as important as keeping teeth clean — because your oral health is connected to your overall health.
The Oral Cancer Screening Process
Our screening process is simple, comfortable, and takes only a few minutes during your visit:
- Visual Examination
We inspect your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, roof of your mouth, and throat for discoloration, sores, or unusual tissue changes. - Physical Examination
Gentle palpation of the jaw, neck, and lymph nodes to detect swelling, lumps, or tenderness. - Advanced Detection Tools (If Needed)
If we notice anything suspicious, we may use special lights or devices to examine tissue in greater detail. - Recommendations for Follow-Up
If necessary, we’ll guide you on the next steps, which may include referral to a specialist for further evaluation.
Signs of Oral Cancer to Watch For
While screenings help detect changes early, you should contact our office if you notice:
- Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Unexplained lumps or thickening in the cheek
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Numbness in the mouth or lips
- Hoarseness or sore throat that persists
Who Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening?
Screenings are recommended for all adults, but certain risk factors make them especially important:
- Tobacco use of any kind
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
- Family history of oral cancer
- Frequent sun exposure without lip protection
Even without risk factors, oral cancer can still develop — making regular screening a smart choice for everyone.
FAQs – Oral Cancer Screening
Is oral cancer screening part of a regular dental checkup?
Yes. At Park Hill Smile, it’s included with every comprehensive dental exam.
Does the screening hurt?
No. The process is quick, painless, and non-invasive.
How often should I be screened for oral cancer?
Most adults benefit from screening at least once a year, often done at every six-month dental visit.
What happens if something unusual is found?
We’ll recommend follow-up with a specialist or additional testing to determine the cause.
Can oral cancer be prevented?
While not all cases are preventable, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and protecting your lips from the sun can lower your risk.
Not necessarily — in many cases, it saves time and reduces the need for additional procedures.
Prioritize Your Health with Early Detection
Your health is too important to leave to chance. At Park Hill Smile, we combine thorough screenings with compassionate care to help you stay healthy and informed. Whether you’re in Park Hill, Central Park, Lowry, Montclair, or City Park, you can count on us for early detection and preventive expertise.
Call +1 (720) 722-9070 or schedule your appointment online to book your next visit.