Early detection saves lives. At Woodland Family Dental, we include an oral cancer screening as a vital part of every routine dental exam. Our team is committed to helping patients in Woodland, CA, and the greater West Sacramento area identify the early signs of mouth cancer before they become more serious.
Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and throat. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, nearly 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer each year, and the disease claims over 9,500 lives annually–a number largely due to late detection. By including screenings as part of your regular dental visits, we help increase your chances of early diagnosis and successful treatment.
This office has been the best dental office I have ever been to. Everyone from front staff to the doctor are super attentive and they always explain everything to me before anything gets done. They always make sure all of my questions are answered and all of their work on me has been great. I love how their system makes my appointments every 6 months for me so I don’t have to worry about calling and scheduling one. I would definitely recommend this office to everyone
Nathalie
Common Oral Cancer Symptoms
- Persistent mouth sores or ulcers that don’t heal
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Numbness in the mouth or lips
- Hoarseness or chronic sore throat
- Jaw stiffness or pain
If you experience any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it’s important to seek evaluation immediately.
What to Expect During Your Oral Cancer Screening
Our oral cancer screenings are quick, noninvasive, and performed during your routine dental checkup. We carefully examine the soft tissues of your mouth, tongue, lips, gums, and throat for any abnormalities or suspicious changes. If anything unusual is found, we may recommend further testing or a referral to a specialist for a biopsy.
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
While oral cancer can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk:
- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
- Age over 40
- Excessive sun exposure (linked to lip cancer)
- Weakened immune system
Even patients without risk factors should be screened regularly, as early oral cancer can develop silently without pain or visible symptoms.
Comprehensive, Family-Oriented Dental Care
At Woodland Family Dental, we believe that everyone deserves a positive dental experience. Our team is dedicated to creating a welcoming atmosphere for patients of all ages, ensuring that every visit is stress-free and tailored to your unique needs. We combine state-of-the-art dental technology with a compassionate approach, making high-quality dental care accessible to individuals and families throughout Woodland and West Sacramento.
About UsIdentify Mouth Cancer Early in West Sacramento
At Woodland Family Dental, we are proactive about oral cancer awareness and prevention. Our team uses digital imaging, magnification, and visual inspection to detect the earliest warning signs. We proudly provide care in both English and Spanish and welcome patients from all backgrounds.
We also accept Dentical, making preventive screenings and complete dental exams accessible to families across Woodland and West Sacramento.
Don’t wait to take charge of your health. Schedule your dental checkup with Woodland Family Dental today and get peace of mind with an oral cancer screening.