The short answer is everyone needs oral cancer screenings. Oral cancer can develop regardless of your age, lifestyle, or health history. At the office of Bruce E. Matthews, DDS, an oral cancer screening is part of your regular dental checkup in Wilmington, DE.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 60,000 adults in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Treatment outcomes are typically better when it is caught early; caught late, treatment can be more involved and less predictable. A screening takes only a few minutes, and we perform it during a routine checkup.
Who Is at Higher Risk for Oral Cancer?
Anyone can develop oral cancer, but certain factors increase the risk:
- Tobacco use in any form, including smoking, vaping, and chewing tobacco
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- A history of HPV (human papillomavirus)
- Prolonged sun exposure, especially the lips
- A previous oral cancer diagnosis
Even if none of these apply to you, we still recommend screening. Many patients diagnosed with oral cancer had no known risk factors.
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
Dr. Matthews checks the soft tissues of your mouth, including your tongue, gums, inner cheeks, the roof and floor of your mouth, and the back of your throat. He is looking for sores that have not healed, unusual patches, swelling, or other changes since your last visit. If anything looks concerning, he will discuss the next steps with you, which may include a referral for further evaluation.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening in Wilmington, DE
If it has been more than six months since your last dental checkup, now is a good time to schedule one. Call the office of Bruce E. Matthews, DDS, at (302) 475-9220 to book your appointment.