Oral Cancer Screening in Woodland Hills
A small sore on the side of the tongue that won't heal, a rough white or red patch inside the cheek, or a lump you only notice when you swallow can be easy to ignore. An oral cancer screening is a quick, focused check that looks for changes like these. At 805 Dentistry, we include this screening as part of the care we provide to patients who come to us from Woodland Hills and the surrounding communities. If something needs a closer look, our office has the tools and specialists to follow up without sending you elsewhere.
An oral cancer screening is a careful exam of the soft tissues of your mouth, face, and neck. We look at and gently feel your lips, gums, tongue (including the sides and underneath), the inside of your cheeks, the roof and floor of your mouth, and the back of your throat. We also check your jaw and neck for lumps or swelling. The goal is to spot anything unusual in color, texture, or shape that deserves attention.
Most changes we find turn out to be harmless, such as irritation from a sharp tooth edge or a cheek bite. A screening does not diagnose cancer on its own. It identifies areas that may need monitoring or further evaluation. That distinction matters, because it keeps the visit simple and low-stress while still giving you useful information about your oral health.
Our office brings several types of care together, which makes a real difference if a screening raises a question. Along with general dentistry led by Dr. Dar Radfar, DDS, we offer oral and maxillofacial pathology services, including oral cancer evaluations and oral biopsies performed in the office. We also provide second-opinion pathology reviews.
When imaging would help, we offer CBCT imaging and 2D and 3D dental imaging, and we have a board-certified oral and maxillofacial radiologist on staff. For Woodland Hills patients, this means one trip can cover a routine exam, a screening, and follow-up steps, rather than coordinating appointments across separate offices. Our pathology and radiology services also accept patients without a referral.
Who should get an oral cancer screening?
Adults benefit from regular screenings, and they are especially worthwhile if you have noticed a change in your mouth that has lasted more than a couple of weeks. Because we see children and adults of all ages, we can work this check into the ongoing care your whole family already receives with us.
You should mention any of these during your visit:
- A sore, ulcer, or spot that is not healing
- White, red, or mixed-color patches on the gums, tongue, or cheeks
- A lump, thickening, or rough area in the mouth or neck
- Persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or a feeling that something is caught in your throat
- Numbness or unexplained pain in the mouth, lips, or jaw
Even without symptoms, a screening establishes a baseline. That makes it easier to recognize changes at future visits.
What happens during the screening, and is there any aftercare?
The screening takes only a few minutes and is usually done during a regular dental exam. You will not need any special preparation, and there is no recovery time. We start by asking about any changes you have noticed. Then we examine the tissues of your mouth and neck by sight and gentle touch. Afterward, we explain what we saw in plain terms.
If everything looks healthy, there is no aftercare beyond your normal brushing, flossing, and routine checkups. If we find an area worth watching, we may ask you to return in a short time to see whether it has resolved. If an area needs a closer look, we can discuss imaging or an in-office biopsy and walk you through each step. Patients who feel anxious about dental procedures can ask about our sedation options, including nitrous, oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia, which are provided by our board-certified dental anesthesiologist.
Between visits, keep an eye on your mouth. If you notice a new sore, patch, or lump that doesn't go away, call us rather than waiting for your next appointment.
How do I pay for an oral cancer screening?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans, and we're glad to help you understand how your coverage applies. Because a screening is commonly part of a routine exam, many patients handle it during a visit they already have scheduled. Our team can review your benefits with you before any additional evaluation or biopsy.
We also welcome self-pay patients, and financing is available for treatment that goes beyond your plan or budget. If you live or work in Woodland Hills and want to add an oral cancer screening to your next visit, contact our office. We'll answer your questions and find a time that works for you.