Oral Cancer Screening: What It Is, Who Needs One, and Why

An oral cancer screening is a quick visual and physical exam of the mouth, throat, tongue, and surrounding tissue for any signs of cancer or precancerous changes. It is performed during a routine dental checkup, takes only a few minutes, and is painless.

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What's Examined

During an oral cancer screening, your dentist looks at the soft tissues of the mouth and throat for lumps or thickened areas, red or white patches that don't go away, sores that haven't healed in two weeks, unexplained bleeding or numbness, and changes in tongue or lip texture. We also gently feel the neck, jaw, and floor of the mouth for unusual firmness in the lymph nodes and soft tissue.

Why Early Detection Matters

Oral cancer is treatable when caught early and significantly harder to treat later. Five-year survival rates are notably higher when oral cancer is detected at an early stage — which is exactly why a quick screening, during a visit you were already making anyway, is one of the most impactful preventive measures available.

Who Is at Higher Risk

Risk factors include tobacco use of any kind, heavy alcohol use (especially combined with tobacco), HPV infection, significant sun exposure to the lips, age over 40, and a previous oral cancer diagnosis. If any apply to you, screening is especially important —and we may recommend more frequent exams.

What Happens If We Spot Something

Most findings turn out to be benign — canker sores, mild irritation, harmless variations in tissue color. When something looks atypical, we may take photos and ask you back in two weeks to monitor changes, or refer you to an oral surgeon for a biopsy. A biopsy is the only definitive way to determine whether a suspicious area is cancerous, and catching changes early makes a meaningful difference in treatment outcomes.

What You Can Do at Home

Do a quick self-check once a month. Look in a mirror for new lumps, white or red patches, or sores that haven't healed in two weeks. Bring anything new to your next dental appointment— sooner if it's been there longer than two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have an oral cancer screening?

For most adults, once a year as part of a routine dental exam is appropriate. Higher-risk patients may benefit from more frequent screening.

Is the screening painful or invasive?

No. It's a visual and gentle physical exam — no needles, no biopsies, no special equipment for the basic screening. It adds only a few minutes to your regular visit.

Will insurance cover it?

‍Oral cancer screenings are typically included as part of a comprehensive dental exam, which is covered at 100% by most dental insurance plans.

Schedule a Preventive Visit in Centennial

If it's been more than a year since your last checkup, schedule a visit at Christiansen Dental. The exam includes an oral cancer screening, cleaning, and review of any concerns — about 60 minutes total. Call (303) 790-9323 or book online.

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About the Authors

Drs. Bart & James Christiansen, DDS are brothers practicing in Centennial, CO. Bart has been practicing since 1988 and James since 2009. They offer general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry for the whole family.