Early detection saves lives. At Blue Dental Clinic on the Upper East Side, an oral cancer screening is part of every comprehensive exam—fast, painless, and focused on catching small changes before they become big problems.

Why choose us

• Screened at every exam: Routine, systematic checks of the mouth and neck.
• Risk-based approach: We review tobacco, alcohol, sun exposure, HPV risk, and family history to tailor follow-up.
• Clear next steps: Photo documentation, short-term rechecks, and timely referrals to oral medicine/ENT/oral surgery when indicated.
• Comfort & clarity: Gentle technique, plain-language explanations, and written guidance if we monitor any area.

What an oral cancer screening includes

• Visual exam: Lips, cheeks, gums, tongue (top, sides, and underside), floor of mouth, palate, tonsil area, and throat.
• Palpation: Gentle feeling of the tongue, floor of mouth, and neck/lymph nodes for lumps or tenderness.
• Symptom review: Sore spots, swallowing changes, hoarseness, ear pain, numbness, or denture fit changes.

Most screenings take about a minute and are completely noninvasive.

Who should be screened?

Everyone—at least once a year, and typically at each routine exam. More frequent checks are wise if you have higher risk due to:

• Tobacco use (smoking or smokeless)
• Regular/heavy alcohol intake
• Prior head & neck lesions or family history
• High sun exposure to the lips
• Past or suspected HPV–related risk (discuss vaccination with your physician)

Warning signs: call us sooner if you notice

• A mouth sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal in 2 weeks
• Red, white, or mixed patches that persist
• A lump, thickening, or rough area in the mouth or neck
• Persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing
• Numbness of the tongue/lip, ear pain on one side, or jaw stiffness
• Unexplained bleeding, weight loss, or a denture that suddenly no longer fits

What happens if we find something?

• Document & recheck: Many spots are benign irritations; we’ll adjust any cause (sharp tooth, appliance) and re-evaluate in 10–14 days.
• Adjunctive testing/referral: If a lesion looks suspicious or persists, we coordinate prompt evaluation—and biopsy if recommended—with trusted specialists.
• Follow-through: You’ll receive clear notes, images (when taken), and help navigating next steps.

Prevention tips that make a difference

• Don’t smoke or vape; limit alcohol.
• Use SPF lip balm outdoors.
• Ask your physician about HPV vaccination.
• Keep regular dental exams and cleanings.
• Maintain good oral hygiene and a balanced diet.

Cost & insurance

Screenings are typically included with comprehensive or periodic dental exams. If a separate problem-focused visit, imaging, or specialist referral is needed, we’ll outline fees in advance. We’re insurance-friendly—we verify benefits and submit claims on your behalf.

FAQs

Does the screening hurt?
No. It’s a gentle look and feel—no needles, no discomfort.

Do I need to prepare?
No special prep. Just tell us about any symptoms or changes you’ve noticed.

Will you do a biopsy?
Biopsies are performed by oral surgery/ENT specialists. We’ll coordinate quickly if indicated.

How often should I be screened?
At every routine exam (usually every 6 months). Higher-risk patients may benefit from more frequent checks.

I don’t smoke—do I still need it?
Yes. Some oral and throat cancers occur without tobacco use, including HPV-associated cases.

Ready for peace of mind?

Book an exam with oral cancer screening at our Upper East Side office. It’s quick, comfortable, and could make all the difference.