The New Patient Exam (as well as all hygiene visits) should include an Oral Cancer Exam.  It is painless and quick – it takes only a few minutes.   The following questions should be answered for an effective oral head and neck cancer screening to take place. 

Did your dentist —

1. Ask you to removal of any dentures (plates) or partials prior to examining your mouth?

2. Inspect your face, neck, lips, and mouth for any signs of cancer?

3. With both hands, feel the area under your jaw and the side of your neck, checking for lumps, bumps, or bruises that may suggest cancer?

4. Look aand feel the insides of your lips and cheeks to check for possible signs of cancer, such as red and/or white patches?

5. Have you stick out your tongue so it can be checked for swelling or abnormal color texture?

6. Use gauze to gently pull your tongue to one side, and then the other, to check the base and underside of your tongue?

7. Look at the roof and floor of your mouth, as well as the back of your throat?

8. Put one finger on the floor of your mouth and, with the other hand under your chin, gently press down to check for lumps or sensitivity?

            –GC