Oral Cancer Screening - Miami, FL
Identify suspicious oral changes as early as possible
About Oral Cancer Screening
An oral cancer screening is a visual and tactile examination of the lips, mouth, throat and surrounding areas. Dr. Lopez checks for sores, patches, lumps, thickened tissue, swelling, asymmetry and other changes that could indicate a problem.
The examination may be completed during a routine dental checkup or when a patient reports a new symptom. Screening does not diagnose cancer. It helps identify areas that may require monitoring, additional evaluation or a biopsy by an appropriate specialist.
Many changes are harmless, but some precancerous and cancerous conditions can be painless and difficult to see at home. Call Jennifer Lopez Dental at (305) 227-1213 or request an appointment for an oral cancer screening in Miami, Florida.
Benefits of Oral Cancer Screening
Quick and Noninvasive
The examination generally takes only a few minutes and does not require injections, radiation or tissue removal.
Evaluation of Hard-to-See Areas
Dr. Lopez examines areas such as the sides and underside of the tongue, floor of the mouth and back of the oral cavity.
Documentation of Changes
Photographs and clinical notes may be used to document an area so it can be compared during a follow-up visit.
Earlier Follow-Up
Identifying a suspicious change allows appropriate monitoring, referral or diagnostic testing to begin sooner.
Patient Awareness
The examination provides an opportunity to discuss warning signs, risk factors and changes that should be reported between dental visits.
What to Expect
Your step-by-step guide to oral cancer screening at Jennifer Lopez Dental.
Health and Symptom Review
Dr. Lopez or a team member will ask about changes in your mouth or throat, including sores, discomfort, lumps, swallowing difficulty or voice changes.
Extraoral Examination
Dr. Lopez visually examines the face and neck for asymmetry or swelling. She may gently feel the jaw, neck and areas beneath the chin for tenderness or unusual lumps.
Intraoral Examination
The lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, floor of the mouth, palate and visible throat are examined under appropriate lighting. Dr. Lopez may use gauze to gently move the tongue so its sides and underside can be viewed.
Additional Screening Aids
An adjunctive light or rinse may sometimes be used to help evaluate oral tissue. These tools do not diagnose cancer or replace a careful visual and tactile examination.
Discussion of Findings
If no concerning changes are identified, Dr. Lopez will recommend continued routine care. If an area needs further evaluation, she will explain its location, appearance and recommended follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screening
Does oral cancer screening hurt?
No. The examination is visual and uses gentle touch to evaluate the mouth, jaw and neck. It does not require injections, radiation or tissue removal. An area that is already irritated may feel mildly tender when examined.
What does oral cancer screening check for?
Dr. Lopez looks for sores that do not heal, unusual red or white patches, lumps, thickened tissue, unexplained bleeding and changes in oral function. She also checks the head and neck for swelling, asymmetry or unusual lymph nodes.
Can screening diagnose oral cancer?
No. Screening can identify an area that needs further evaluation, but it cannot confirm cancer. A laboratory biopsy is required for diagnosis.
Who has a higher risk of oral cancer?
Risk is higher among people who use tobacco, frequently consume alcohol, have certain high-risk HPV infections, have extensive sun exposure to the lips or have a previous head and neck cancer. Risk also increases with age.
Can someone without risk factors develop oral cancer?
Yes. Oral and oropharyngeal cancers can occur in people without known risk factors. Report persistent or unexplained changes even if you do not use tobacco or alcohol.
What should I do if I notice a change between visits?
Call the office if you notice a sore, patch, lump, thickened area, persistent hoarseness or another unexplained change that lasts longer than two weeks. Rapidly increasing swelling, significant bleeding or difficulty swallowing requires more urgent evaluation.
What happens if Dr. Lopez finds a suspicious area?
She may photograph and monitor the area, address a possible source of irritation or refer you to an appropriate specialist. A biopsy may be recommended if the tissue requires diagnostic testing.
Is an oral cancer screening covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by dental plan and how the examination is billed. Our team can review available benefit information, but your insurance company makes the final coverage decision.
Interested in Oral Cancer Screening?
Let Us Help You
Take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Dr. Lopez and our Miami team will walk you through your oral cancer screening options, answer your questions, and help you make the best decision for your oral health. Call (305) 227-1213 or request an appointment online.
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