About Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screening is a quick, non-invasive visual and physical exam of your mouth, tongue, throat and the tissues around them. Your dentist looks and feels for unusual patches, lumps, sores or tissue changes that may need a closer look or follow-up.
At Rundlehorn Smiles Dental in NE Calgary, oral cancer screening is part of every comprehensive exam. It takes under five minutes, needs no special preparation and does not hurt, which makes it one of the simplest and most valuable checks in your visit.
Oral cancer can develop without pain in its early stages, and many people do not notice changes themselves. Regular screening by a dentist gives you a second set of trained eyes on areas you cannot easily see.
Benefits of Oral Cancer Screening
- Early detection saves lives: Identifying cancer in its earliest stages offers the best chance of successful treatment.
- Fast, painless process: Screenings take just minutes and fit into your regular dental visit.
- Peace of mind: Routine screenings help eliminate doubt and support your long-term oral health.
- Monitored health over time: Regular screenings let your dentist notice subtle changes before symptoms arise.
What Is Included in an Oral Cancer Screening
- A visual check of your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue and the floor and roof of your mouth
- A look at the back of your throat
- A gentle feel of your jaw, neck and the floor of your mouth for lumps or swelling
- A quick review of your health history and habits, including tobacco and alcohol use
- A plain-language explanation of what we see
- A note in your record so changes can be compared over time
- Clear next steps if anything looks unusual
Who Should Be Screened
Everyone can benefit from regular screening, and it is especially worth prioritizing if:
- You use or have used tobacco
- You drink alcohol regularly
- You have a family history of cancer
- A sore or patch in your mouth has not healed in two weeks
- You want the peace of mind of an annual screening
Warning Signs to Watch For
- A sore or ulcer that does not heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches inside your mouth
- A lump, bump or thickened area in your mouth, cheek or neck
- Ongoing numbness or pain in your mouth, tongue or lips
- Trouble chewing, swallowing or moving your jaw or tongue
Many of these signs have harmless causes, but they should always be checked. If you notice any of them, book a visit as soon as you can instead of waiting for your next scheduled checkup.
What to Expect at Your Visit
- Book your exam. Screening is part of every comprehensive exam, so there is nothing extra to arrange.
- A short conversation. We ask about your health history, habits and anything you have noticed in your mouth.
- The screening. Your dentist checks your mouth, tongue and throat and feels your jaw and neck. It takes under five minutes.
- Clear results. We explain what we saw in plain language.
- Next steps if needed. If something needs attention, we explain what it means and what to do next, which may include monitoring it or referring you for further testing.
Why Choose Rundlehorn Smiles Dental for Oral Cancer Screening
- Screening is built into every comprehensive exam, so it is never overlooked
- Four general dentists who explain the why before the what
- A calm, unhurried pace and a comfortable clinic
- Open seven days a week: Monday to Saturday 8 AM to 8 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM
- New patients accepted every day, for adults and children
- Participating CDCP provider with direct billing to most major insurers
Related Treatments
- Oral Exams and X-Rays: A complete check of your teeth, gums, bite and soft tissues.
- Dental Cleanings: Keep your mouth healthy between exams with professional cleanings.
- Periodontal (Gum) Care: Treat and prevent gum disease, which can be found at the same visit.
Cost of Oral Cancer Screening in NE Calgary
Oral cancer screening is part of every comprehensive exam, so it is included in the visit rather than booked as a separate service. The cost of your visit depends on the type of exam and any X-rays you need, and we give you a written, itemised estimate before any treatment begins.
We direct bill most major insurers, and we are a participating provider for the Canadian Dental Care Plan, which covers diagnostic exams for eligible patients. New patients also receive a $50 gift card with a new patient exam and hygiene visit. See our payment options, or call 403-300-2233 for a personalized quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an oral cancer screening and what happens during one?
An oral cancer screening is a quick, non-invasive exam of your mouth, tongue, throat and neck. Your dentist looks for unusual patches, sores or discolouration and gently feels for lumps or swelling. It takes under five minutes and is part of every comprehensive exam at Rundlehorn Smiles Dental.
Do dentists screen for oral cancer during a regular exam?
Yes. Dentists are often the first to notice early changes in the mouth. At Rundlehorn Smiles Dental, an oral cancer screening is part of every comprehensive exam, so you do not need a separate appointment.
Is oral cancer screening painful?
No. The screening is a visual and hands-on exam that is completely non-invasive. Most patients feel nothing more than a gentle touch on the cheeks, jaw and neck.
How often should I get screened for oral cancer?
Most adults benefit from a screening at least once a year, and it happens naturally with regular checkups. People who use tobacco, drink alcohol regularly or have a family history of cancer may benefit from more frequent checks. Your dentist will advise you.
What are the warning signs of oral cancer?
Common warning signs include a sore or ulcer that does not heal in two weeks, red or white patches, a lump or thickened area, ongoing numbness or pain, and trouble chewing or swallowing. Many of these have harmless causes, but they should always be checked, so book a visit as soon as you notice one.
Book Your Oral Cancer Screening
We're accepting new patients every day and hold time for urgent cases. Monday to Saturday 8 AM to 8 PM, Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM.