Oral Cancer Screening in Corona De Tucson, AZ
Early Detection Starts with a Trusted Professional
At Santa Rita Family Dentistry, we are committed to your total oral health—not just your teeth and gums. As part of every comprehensive exam, we offer oral cancer screenings to check for early warning signs of disease that may not be visible or painful in the early stages.
Oral cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, habits, or overall health. That’s why routine screenings are a key component of preventive care at our practice. If caught early, oral cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer—with high survival rates and fewer invasive treatments.
Patients in Corona De Tucson, Vail, and Sahuarita trust us for thorough, respectful, and discreet care—because peace of mind starts with being informed.
Why Oral Cancer Screening Matters
Oral cancer is often silent in its early stages, showing little to no symptoms until it has progressed. By the time visible signs appear, the disease may already be advanced. An oral cancer screening is a fast, non-invasive way to detect abnormalities early and refer you to a specialist if necessary.
Dr. Travis Luke includes this screening as a standard part of regular dental exams because:
- It can identify suspicious lesions, sores, or tissue changes early
- It only takes a few minutes to complete
- It adds no discomfort to your visit
- It’s potentially life-saving
What We Look For During a Screening
Oral cancer can develop in multiple areas of the mouth and throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, palate, sinuses, and throat. During your screening, Dr. Luke will examine these areas carefully for:
- Red or white patches
- Sores that do not heal
- Unusual lumps, bumps, or thickening of soft tissues
- Pain or numbness in the mouth or lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- Jaw or neck swelling that doesn’t resolve
We also review your medical and lifestyle history to assess your risk profile. Patients who use tobacco, drink alcohol frequently, or have a history of HPV are at higher risk, but oral cancer can develop in anyone.
Who Should Get Screened?
Every adult should be screened regularly—especially those over age 40 or those with known risk factors. At Santa Rita Family Dentistry, we recommend an oral cancer screening at least once a year, typically as part of your six-month cleaning and exam.
You should also schedule a screening sooner if you notice:
- A sore or lesion that hasn’t healed after two weeks
- Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
- Difficulty moving your jaw or tongue
- Changes in voice, speech, or swallowing
When in doubt, it's always best to get checked.
How We Perform Oral Cancer Screenings
An oral cancer screening takes just a few minutes and is completely painless. It includes:
- Visual Exam – Dr. Luke checks the soft tissues of your mouth, throat, and lips using a light and mirror.
- Palpation – Gentle pressure is applied along the neck, jawline, and under the chin to detect any lumps or swelling.
- Discussion – If any areas look suspicious, we’ll explain next steps and refer you for further evaluation as needed.
There’s no downtime, no discomfort, and no special preparation required.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is an oral cancer screening the same as a dental exam?
Not exactly. A dental exam focuses on your teeth and gums, while an oral cancer screening evaluates the soft tissues of the mouth and throat. Both are typically done during the same visit for comprehensive care.
Does oral cancer only affect smokers?
No. While tobacco use is a major risk factor, oral cancer can also develop in non-smokers. Genetics, alcohol use, sun exposure (for lip cancer), and HPV are also contributing factors.
What happens if something abnormal is found?
Dr. Luke will explain what was observed and refer you to an oral pathologist or ENT specialist for further evaluation. A biopsy may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis.
Is there any radiation or special equipment used?
In most cases, no. We perform a visual and tactile exam using standard dental instruments and lighting. Some practices use adjunctive screening tools, but they are not always necessary.
Will my insurance cover oral cancer screening?
If part of your routine dental cleaning and exam, most dental plans will cover the screening. We’ll review your benefits and confirm what’s included in your visit.
Still have questions?
Be Proactive About Your Health
Oral cancer screenings are fast, painless, and could make all the difference. Whether you're coming in for a regular checkup or haven’t been to the dentist in a while, Santa Rita Family Dentistry is here to help you stay ahead of potential problems.