Oral Cancer Screenings in North Branch and Caro, MI
Oral cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer that can be effectively treated if detected early. Unfortunately, it’s often detected in its later stages as people don’t regularly screen for them. Here at Thumbs Up Dental, we believe that early detection of oral cancers is key to the battle. We offer oral cancer screenings in North Branch and Caro, MI, to help you look for any signs of cancer.
What are the signs of oral cancer?
While oral cancer screenings are still one of the best ways to detect oral cancers early, you should keep an eye out for signs of irregular lumps, swollen gums, or growths forming. You may also experience recurring ulcers and pain when you chew. These are just some of the signs to look out for, and it is still recommended that you schedule an oral cancer screening once a year.
Bad lifestyle habits lead to higher risks of developing oral cancer.
While it’s true that chronic smoking and regular alcohol consumption can increase your chances of developing oral cancer, even if you do lead a healthy lifestyle, you still have a risk of developing it. Studies have also shown that oral cancers are likely to develop in older folk. Making sure you regularly screen for oral cancer will significantly improve the chances of it being detected early.
The oral cancer screening procedure is explained.
When you first come in for an oral cancer screening, Our dentist will look for any visible signs of lumps, growths, or irregularities. Digital photographs will be taken for record purposes and will be used for comparison in future visits. While our Caro dentist will be able to keep an eye out for any abnormalities during a regular dental checkup, it won’t be as thorough as having it specifically screened.
If you’re not sure about the financial costs involved, get in touch with our team or look at our accepted payment methods here. Our dentist in North Branch will assess your situation and give recommendations based on your individual needs and what will be best for you. Schedule your appointment at our dental clinic at Thumbs Up Dental today.
FAQs
What exactly happens during an oral cancer screening at Thumbs Up Dental?
During your screening, we’ll visually inspect and gently feel (palpate) your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, the floor and roof of your mouth, throat, and neck for any unusual red or white patches, lumps, or sores. If needed, we may also use a special light or dye to highlight abnormal tissue.
The entire process takes only a few minutes and is painless.
Who needs oral cancer screenings and how frequently should they occur?
Because early detection is key, we recommend all adult patients have a screening at least annually, especially if they have risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, HPV infection, or a history of sun exposure to the lips.
If you’re under age 40 and have no risk factors, your dentist may advise with less frequency, but ask about what’s best for you.
What are common risk factors for oral cancer?
Risk factors include smoking or chewing tobacco, frequent or heavy alcohol consumption, infection with HPV (human papillomavirus), and prolonged sun exposure (especially to the lips). Even if you don’t have these factors, a screening is still highly encouraged.
Can this screening detect oral cancer for sure?
While the screening is a very important tool, it’s a screening and not a definitive diagnosis. It helps identify signs or suspicious lesions early. A biopsy or further testing may still be required to confirm oral cancer.
That’s why it’s better to detect any changes early—when treatment has a better chance of success.
I don’t have any symptoms — do I still need a screening?
Yes — and that’s often when screening is most helpful. Many early-stage lesions or cancers don’t yet cause pain or obvious symptoms. Regular screenings allow us to catch changes before symptoms appear.
If you are experiencing persistent mouth sores, red/white patches, lumps, or difficulty swallowing, call us sooner for an evaluation.
How do I prepare for the screening?
No special preparation is needed. Just come to your routine dental visit or schedule a screening at our North Branch or Caro location. You don’t need to fast, and the exam is quick.
If you have any mouth injuries or are under treatment elsewhere, let us know so we can tailor the exam appropriately.
What happens if something suspicious is found?
If we identify a spot or area of concern, we’ll discuss the findings with you immediately. We may recommend a follow-up appointment in a few weeks to monitor changes or refer you for a biopsy and/or specialist consultation.
Early detection greatly improves options and outcomes — and we’ll guide you through every step, every time.
