What Does a Dentist Look for During an Oral Cancer Screening?
The “Silent” Risk of Oral Cancer
April is recognized as Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and for good reason. Oral cancer often goes undetected in its early stages because symptoms can be subtle or painless.
Unfortunately, this means many cases are diagnosed later—when treatment becomes more complex. Regular screenings during routine visits play a critical role in catching abnormalities early, when they are most treatable.
It’s Not Just About Tobacco Use
While tobacco use is a well-known risk factor, oral cancer can affect a broader range of patients than many realize. Additional risk factors include:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Prolonged sun exposure (especially to the lips)
- Age and genetic predisposition
Understanding these risks is important, as many patients who develop oral cancer do not fit the traditional high-risk profile.
A Quick, Painless Step That Matters
An oral cancer screening is a fast, non-invasive part of your routine visit, often completed during a standard dental cleaning.
Dr. Brauer will carefully examine your mouth, tongue, gums, and surrounding tissues, checking for any irregularities. With the support of modern imaging tools, even small changes can be identified and monitored.
This simple step can make a life-saving difference—without adding time or discomfort to your appointment.
Protect Your Health This April
Early detection saves lives. Make oral cancer screening part of your routine care and take a proactive step toward protecting your health.
Book your exam and oral cancer screening at our Indianapolis office today, or learn more about our approach on our oral cancer screening page.
