Oral Cancer Screening
Feel Good About Your Health
Protect Yourself With an Oral Cancer Screening in Houston
Dr. Paul Lee and our entire team care about your health. Regular checkups are the first line of defense for oral health issues. Every exam includes an oral cancer screening in Houston. We can spot the warning signs before they progress into a more serious issue using advanced technology called Velscope. You'll also learn about your risk factors for oral cancer and how to perform at-home checks.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), more than 54,000 people a year are diagnosed with oral cancer. Early detection saves lives. Dental cleanings and exams are more than just about your teeth and gums. They can spot conditions, like oral cancer, that put your health at risk. We care about you. With our comprehensive approach to dentistry, it shows.
Find Out What to Expect From Your Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer often hides in plain sight. That's exactly why screening matters. Your dentist can spot warning signs long before you notice them yourself, using nothing more than a careful visual check and gentle touch. An oral cancer screening in Houston is one of the easiest ways to protect your long-term health. Your evaluation happens in the patient chair you're already sitting in during your regular exam. No extra appointment is needed for this important check.
Visual Examination
Your dentist looks closely at your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and the roof and floor of your mouth. We use a Velscope scanner to look for any signs of oral cancer.
Physical Palpation
Your dentist gently feels your jaw, neck, and the tissues inside your mouth for lumps or firm spots. This step provides a fuller picture of your health.
Throat and Neck Check
We check your neck and throat for swelling or asymmetry, since oral cancers can affect nearby lymph nodes. Catching a change here early can mean easier treatment.
Referral Guidance
If something needs a closer look, your dentist connects you with a specialist right away. You're never left wondering what to do next. You can move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screenings
Does an oral cancer screening hurt?
Can I check for oral cancer at home?
How long does an oral cancer screening take?
Who needs an oral cancer screening?
Everyone benefits from an oral cancer screening, regardless of age or lifestyle. Many oral cancers develop without pain or obvious symptoms, so you can't rely on how you feel to know something's wrong. Certain habits and health factors can raise your risk, and your dentist can explain what applies to you. Getting screened regularly means you're never caught off guard.
What happens if my dentist finds something unusual during my oral cancer screening?
If your dentist finds something unusual during an oral cancer screening, they'll document its size, shape, and location so they can track it closely. You'll hear directly from your dentist about what they saw and what it might mean for you. If it needs a closer look, you'll get a referral to a specialist right away. You won't be left wondering what your next step should be.
