.webp?width=100&height=100&name=Clove%20Dental%20White%20Small%20(28).webp "Clove Dental White Small (28)")
Oral Cancer Screening in Santa Monica
At Clove Dental, we care about more than just clean teeth and fresh breath. Every time you visit us for a checkup, we include a simple but powerful step: a screening for oral cancer. It’s quick, completely painless, and could make a life-changing difference. Using both our clinical expertise and specialized tools, we carefully check for anything unusual in your mouth, jaw, or throat. Catching signs early is the key to more effective treatment.
What Does an Oral Cancer Screening Involve?
An oral cancer screening is a close examination of the soft tissues in and around your mouth, including your tongue, lips, cheeks, throat, and neck. We’re not just glancing around; we’re actively checking for anything that seems off. This may include texture changes, discoloration, or abnormal growths. We also use enhanced lighting and magnification tools to catch even the smallest red flags, often before symptoms appear.
Signs You Might Need an Oral Cancer Screening
Some early signs of oral cancer can look or feel like minor annoyances. But if they stick around, they deserve a closer look. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s a good idea to schedule an exam:
- A sore that hasn’t healed in two weeks or longer
- Bleeding from your mouth without an obvious cause
- Persistent pain, numbness, or tingling in your lips or tongue
- Hoarseness or a sore throat that won’t go away
- Lumps or unusual thickening in your neck or jaw
Benefits of Oral Cancer Screening
Getting checked regularly is one of the smartest things you can do for your health. Here’s why it makes a real difference:
Early Detection Saves Lives
Personal Risk Awareness
Advanced Detection Tools
Seamless Specialist Referrals
What to Expect During Your Screening
We make the process easy and stress-free. Here’s how it works during your regular checkup:
- Risk Review: We talk with you about your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle habits like tobacco or alcohol use.
- Hands-On Exam: We gently check your mouth, tongue, jaw, and neck for any signs of swelling, tenderness, or abnormal tissue.
- Advanced Tools: Special lighting and screening devices help us examine your mouth in detail.
- Results & Next Steps: You’ll get clear feedback right away. If we notice anything unusual, we’ll explain what it could mean and what to do next.
Frequently Asked Questions
