Oral cancer can develop in any area of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, throat, and the roof or floor of the mouth. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle, but early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes. At New Leaf Dental Care, we include oral cancer screenings as part of your regular dental visits to help identify potential signs of concern as early as possible.

Oral cancer begins when abnormal cells form and grow uncontrollably in the tissues of the mouth or throat. While anyone can develop it, certain risk factors can increase your likelihood of diagnosis.

Common Risk Factors Include:

• Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing
• Frequent or heavy alcohol consumption
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Excessive exposure to sunlight (especially affecting the lips)
• Family history of cancer
• Poor diet and a weakened immune system

Even if you do not have these risk factors, routine screenings are still important. Early stages of oral cancer may not show visible symptoms or cause pain.

Oral cancer can progress quietly. Scheduling regular dental visits helps ensure that any unusual changes are caught early. You should contact your dentist if you notice:

• Sores or lesions in the mouth or on the lips that do not heal
• Red or white patches on the tongue, gums, or cheeks
• A lump, thickening, or rough spot inside the mouth
• Pain, numbness, or difficulty chewing and swallowing
• A persistent sore throat or hoarseness
• Unexplained bleeding or weight loss

These symptoms may not always indicate cancer, but they should always be examined by a dental professional to rule out serious issues.

An oral cancer screening is a quick, non-invasive exam that can be completed as part of your routine dental checkup. At New Leaf Dental Care, we take a thorough and comfortable approach to ensure your oral health is fully assessed. The Screening Process Includes:

Visual Examination

We carefully inspect your lips, gums, tongue, and the inner surfaces of your mouth for discoloration, swelling, or irregular patches.

Palpation

Your dentist will gently feel the jaw, neck, and lymph nodes for any lumps or tenderness.

Tissue Assessment

If necessary, enhanced lighting or rinses may be used to highlight changes in tissue that are not visible to the naked eye.

If we notice any areas of concern, we may recommend follow-up imaging, further evaluation, or referral to a specialist for additional testing.

When detected early, oral cancer is often highly treatable. Regular screenings are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your long-term health. Even if you have no symptoms or known risk factors, a quick examination can provide peace of mind and ensure your ongoing wellness.

At New Leaf Dental Care, we’re committed to preventive care that supports your whole-body health, not just your smile.