Oral Cancer Screening

Why Early Detection Matters

Changes inside the mouth are easy to miss. A patch, a sore or a lump can be small and may cause no pain at first. The earlier an abnormal area is noticed, the sooner you and your dentist can decide on next steps.

That is the reason screening is worth including in your regular visits, even when your teeth feel fine.

What an Oral Cancer Exam Looks For

The screening checks for abnormal cells and changes in the soft tissues of your mouth, including:

• The tongue and the floor of the mouth
• The cheeks and lips
• The palate (the roof of your mouth)
• The throat area

It is non-invasive and comfortable, and it is a good fit alongside a routine exam. See our page on dental cleaning and checkups for what else happens at a regular visit.

Who Should Be Screened

Adults of any age can ask for a screening. It matters even more if you have risk factors, such as:

• Smoking or using tobacco
• A family history of oral cancer
• A sore or patch in your mouth that has lasted a while
• Ongoing hoarseness or trouble swallowing that you have not had checked

If you have noticed a mouth sore that will not heal, do not wait for your next check-up. Call us and we will arrange a time.

What Your Screening Appointment Is Like

You can expect a friendly, unhurried visit. Your dentist asks about any changes you have noticed, looks carefully at the tissues in your mouth and talks you through what they see. If something needs a closer look or further testing, your dentist explains the next step clearly.

Our team is gentle, honest and judgment-free, so you can ask about lifestyle habits or worries without feeling embarrassed.

Oral Cancer Screening Cost and Insurance

If you are wondering about the cost of an oral cancer screening, ask us when you call. We follow the ADA Fee Guide with transparent pricing and give you a detailed estimate before any work begins.

We direct bill most insurance plans, file your claims for you and help you get the most from your benefits. We also accept CDCP and NIHB for eligible patients, and we offer 0% financing and flexible payment options.

Why Northeast Calgary Patients Choose Oasis Smile Dental

We are a neighbourhood dentist at 3565 20 Ave NE #110, serving T1Y and patients from across Northeast Calgary, including Rundle, Whitehorn, Abbeydale and Marlborough. We are open seven days a week from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, so an oral cancer exam near you can fit around work and school. New patients are welcome, and we speak English, Punjabi, Arabic and Tagalog.

Keeping Your Mouth Healthy Between Visits

Check your own mouth now and then in a well-lit mirror, and note anything new. Brushing, flossing and avoiding tobacco all support a healthy mouth. Gum problems are a separate concern, so read about our periodontal treatment if your gums bleed or feel sore. If you have a painful problem right now, our emergency dentist page explains how we help.

Frequently Asked Questions