Oral Cancer Screening in North Phoenix, AZ

What Is an Oral Cancer Screening and Why Is It Important?

An oral cancer screening is a focused oral pathology exam performed during your comprehensive oral exam to identify abnormal tissue changes in the mouth, throat, and surrounding structures. This type of oral health risk assessment allows us to detect concerns early, often before symptoms become severe.

An oral health screening is important because it:

• Detects abnormal tissue changes early
• Identifies precancerous lesions
• Screens the tongue, cheeks, gums, throat, and lips
• Is often completed in just a few minutes
• Can be life-saving when cancer is caught early

Many people do not realize that oral cancer can develop without pain in its early stages. Regular screenings provide peace of mind and proactive protection.

Most adults should receive an oral cancer screening annually during their routine visits. Because we integrate this exam into your comprehensive oral exam, it becomes a seamless part of your regular dental care.

Patients with higher risk factors may benefit from more frequent screening. During your visit, we perform an oral health risk assessment to determine what is appropriate for you. At The Smile Studio, our goal is to ensure every North Phoenix patient receives personalized and proactive care.

What Symptoms Should Make Me Schedule an Oral Screening?

While routine screenings are important, certain symptoms should prompt you to schedule an appointment sooner.

Contact us if you notice:

• Persistent mouth sores that do not heal
• Red or white patches inside the mouth
• Unexplained bleeding
• A lump or thickened tissue area
• Difficulty swallowing
• Numbness in the mouth or lips
• Jaw stiffness or limited movement

If you experience any of these signs, we encourage you to schedule your oral pathology exam promptly. Early evaluation can make a critical difference.

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening Appointment?

A screening at The Smile Studio is thorough, gentle, and efficient.

What We Check During Your Oral Pathology Exam

During your oral cancer screening, we examine:

• Lips
• Tongue
• Floor of the mouth
• Roof of the mouth
• Inner cheeks
• Gums
• Throat and tonsillar area
• Neck and lymph nodes

We perform a careful visual examination and gentle palpation of the tissues. We also review lifestyle and medical risk factors as part of your oral health risk assessment. The entire process typically takes only a few minutes and is completed in our comfortable dental environment designed to reduce stress.

What Happens If Something Suspicious Is Found?

If we identify an area of concern during your oral cancer screening, our approach remains calm and methodical. Many abnormalities are benign and require only monitoring.

If needed, we may:

• Reevaluate the area at a follow-up visit
• Perform an additional oral pathology exam
• Refer for a biopsy if further investigation is necessary

Dr. Burnham is attentive and thorough in every examination. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, and we will guide you through every step with clarity and compassion.

How Much Does an Oral Cancer Screening Cost?

In many cases, an oral cancer screening is included as part of your comprehensive oral exam during routine dental visits. Depending on your plan, this service may be covered by dental insurance.

For patients searching for oral cancer screening services, we encourage you to contact our office for personalized cost information. Early detection not only protects your health but can also reduce long-term medical expenses associated with advanced treatment.

Why Choose The Smile Studio for Your Oral Cancer Screening?

At The Smile Studio, preventive dentistry drives everything we do. Our comprehensive exams include detailed oral pathology awareness and a thorough screening protocol using modern diagnostic techniques. We approach each oral cancer screening with precision and care.

We believe health care should feel welcoming. Our spa-like amenities include:

• Noise-canceling headphones
• Plush blankets
• Neck pillows
• In-room TVs with streaming
• Nitrous oxide for relaxation