EARLY DETECTION STARTS WITH ROUTINE SCREENING

Oral Cancer Screenings in Toronto

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is an examination of the mouth and surrounding tissues for changes that may require further assessment. Your dentist looks beyond the teeth and checks areas such as the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, roof and floor of the mouth, and throat.


At Beach Dental in Toronto, your dentist may also examine the head and neck and feel for unusual lumps, swelling, or changes in the lymph nodes. If something concerning is found, we will explain what was observed and discuss whether additional evaluation or follow-up is needed. Contact us to learn more about oral cancer screenings or to schedule your next dental examination.

Signs That Should Be Checked by a Dentist

Many changes in the mouth are caused by conditions other than cancer, but symptoms that persist should not be ignored. Regular dental examinations can help identify changes that may be difficult to notice on your own.

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Sores That Do Not Heal

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Red or White Mouth Patches

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Lumps or Thickened Areas

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Unexplained Bleeding or Numbness

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Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about oral cancer screenings? Explore helpful information about signs, exams, risk factors, and follow-up.

  • What does a dentist look for during an oral cancer screening?

    Your dentist looks for unusual changes in the tissues of your mouth, including sores, red or white patches, lumps, thickened areas, swelling, bleeding, or changes in texture or colour. The examination may also include checking your face, jaw, neck, and lymph nodes for abnormalities.

  • How often should I have an oral cancer screening?

    Oral cancer screening is commonly included as part of routine dental examinations. How often you should be examined depends on your oral health, age, lifestyle, and individual risk factors. Your dentist may recommend more frequent monitoring if you have specific concerns or a higher risk profile.

  • What are the early signs of oral cancer?

    Possible warning signs include a sore that does not heal, red or white patches, a lump or thickened area, unusual bleeding or numbness, persistent throat symptoms, and difficulty chewing or swallowing. Changes that persist should be assessed by a dental or medical professional.

  • Who is at higher risk for oral cancer?

    Risk can increase with age and may also be associated with tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, sun exposure to the lips, a weakened immune system, and certain HPV-related factors. However, oral cancer can occur in people without obvious risk factors, which is why routine examinations remain important.

  • Does an oral cancer screening hurt?

    No. A routine oral cancer screening is generally quick and painless. Your dentist visually examines the tissues of your mouth and may gently feel areas of your mouth, jaw, face, and neck for unusual changes. No cutting or invasive procedure is involved during the initial screening examination.

  • What happens if my dentist finds something unusual?

    Finding an unusual area does not automatically mean cancer is present. Your dentist may recommend monitoring the area, arranging additional testing, or referring you to an appropriate healthcare professional for further evaluation. If a suspicious lesion requires diagnosis, additional examination or biopsy may be necessary.