Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral Cancer Screening in Emerson, New Jersey

Count on Emerson Family Dental for oral cancer screenings in Emerson, New Jersey. Every year thousands of people are diagnosed with some form of mouth cancer. Early detection is the key to beating the disease. Besides the entire oral cavity, oral cancer can also affect the throat, tonsils, and lips. So don’t hesitate to schedule your dental health checkup today.

Get Screened for Mouth Cancer

For your convenience, we perform oral cancer screenings near you during routine checkups. At your appointment, expect to be questioned about your health history. Then Dr. Sonn will examine your mouth, neck, and head. The entire screening takes only a few minutes. During the exam, our Emerson, New Jersey dentist will discuss the signs and symptoms. He/she will also go over ways to check for abnormalities as well. If we find anything suspicious, then Dr. Sonn will take a biopsy. If the tissue sample comes back positive, surgery is usually the next course of treatment. So, remember that twice-yearly dental visits will help catch oral cancer early.

Common Signs of Oral Cancer:

  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing
  • Hard to move your tongue or jaw
  • Loose teeth for seemingly no reason
  • Numbness or swelling in the mouth (or both)
  • Soreness, pain, or a lump that doesn’t go away
  • White or red lesions on gums, tongue, lips, or other mouth areas

Risk Factors:

  • Alcohol abuse
  • HPV 16
  • Poor Diet
  • Tobacco use

Spread the Word About Oral Cancer Screenings Near You

One of the most effective ways to raise awareness about oral cancer is to get the word out. Like other more well-known cancers, active surveillance is crucial. Patients over 50 have been the highest risk group, but more mouth cancer cases in young people have arisen in recent years. While this surge’s exact cause is unknown, research has shown that HPV 16 is a link between oral cancer and people in their 20s and 30s. For this reason, patients of all ages should keep up with biannual screenings. Contact Emerson Family Dental to learn more or to schedule a dental exam. We are happy to help!

Visit our for urgent care in Emerson, NJ, if you’re facing issues like a chipped tooth, bleeding gums, and cosmetic dentistry in New Jersey for cosmetic dental care solutions.

FAQs

What is an oral cancer screening and why is it done?

An oral cancer screening is basically a visual and tactile examination of the soft tissues in your mouth to detect early signs of abnormal changes. Early identification improves the chance of successful treatment.

How frequently should I get an oral cancer screening?

Most adults benefit from screenings every six months during routine exams. Individuals with higher risk factors—like tobacco use or heavy alcohol consumption—may require more frequent checks.

What happens during an oral cancer screening?

Your dentist examines your gums, tongue, cheeks, and throat and may feel your neck for lumps. Some offices use special lights or dyes for enhanced viewing. Screenings are quick, non-invasive, and comfortable.

What if a suspicious lesion is found?

If an abnormal area is detected, the dentist may recommend further evaluation, such as additional tests or referral to a specialist. An oral cancer screening does not diagnose cancer — it helps identify areas that may need further assessment.

Does oral cancer only affect smokers or older adults?

No. Although smoking and alcohol increase risk, oral cancer can occur in anyone. Regular screenings help detect early changes regardless of age or lifestyle.

Are oral cancer screenings painful?

No. Screenings are gentle and do not require anesthesia. Most patients resume normal activities immediately afterward.

What signs should I watch for between screenings?

Persistent sores, lumps, color changes, or pain lasting more than two weeks should be evaluated promptly. Early attention to changes supports better outcomes.

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