What is an Oral Cancer Exam?

We perform a thorough oral cancer exam during your checkups because early detection can save your life. As part of one of your cleaning and exam, your dentist or hygienistwill examine your mouth carefully using the VELscope.

During the exam, we also feel for lumps or abnormal tissue changes on your neck and inside your mouth.

We thoroughly examine the soft tissues in your mouth, especially the most frequent oral cancer sites:

• your tongue.
• the floor of your mouth.
• your soft palate.
• your lips.
• your gums.

We may also do additional testing or use specialized equipment to identify any suspicious areas, particularly if you’re at higher risk, such as adults over 40, anyone who uses tobacco, especially those who also drink alcohol excessively, or people who have had oral contact with the human papilloma virus.