Early detection can be the difference between a minor concern and a serious health challenge. Oral cancer screenings identify abnormalities in your mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues before symptoms become noticeable, giving you the best chance for successful outcomes when intervention becomes necessary.
At LALUME Dental Studio, we integrate comprehensive oral cancer screenings into your routine dental visits. Our team uses advanced diagnostic technology to examine your oral tissues for signs of precancerous conditions or early-stage cancer, helping you maintain both your oral health and overall well-being.
During your screening, we perform a thorough visual and physical examination of your mouth, tongue, throat, and neck. The process takes just a few minutes and causes no discomfort. We look at all visible surfaces inside your mouth, checking for discoloration, lumps, or tissue changes that may warrant closer attention.
We also examine areas you can’t easily see yourself, including the back of your throat, the base of your tongue, and your tonsils. Our team checks the lymph nodes in your neck for any swelling or abnormalities. If we identify anything unusual, we may recommend additional testing or refer you to a physician for further evaluation.
Oral cancer may present differently from person to person, which is why professional screenings are so valuable. Some warning signs appear obvious, while others remain subtle and easy to miss during your daily routine. We examine your oral tissues for persistent sores that don’t heal within two weeks, unusual lumps or thickened areas, and patches of white or red tissue.
Changes in tissue texture or color often signal the need for closer monitoring. Leukoplakia, which appears as thick, whitish patches inside the cheeks, gums, or tongue, may result from irritation but sometimes indicates precancerous changes. We also watch for unexplained bleeding, numbness, or difficulty swallowing that persists beyond a few days.
Anyone can develop oral cancer, but certain factors may increase your risk.
Tobacco use in any form significantly raises your chances of developing oral cancer, as does heavy alcohol consumption.
People over 40 face a higher risk, though we’ve seen an increase in cases among younger adults in recent years.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has become a major risk factor for certain types of oral cancer, particularly those affecting the back of the throat and base of the tongue.
Previous cancer diagnosis, prolonged sun exposure to your lips, and a family history of cancer also increase your risk. Even if you don’t have these risk factors, regular screenings remain important because oral cancer can affect anyone.
We recommend oral cancer screenings as part of your routine dental check-ups, typically every six months. Your individual risk factors may call for more frequent screenings. If you use tobacco, consume alcohol regularly, or have a history of oral lesions, we may suggest examinations every three to four months.
The frequency of your screenings should match your risk level and any concerns you or our team identify. Consistent screening intervals help us establish what’s normal for your oral tissues, making it easier to spot changes when they occur. This baseline comparison becomes one of our most valuable diagnostic tools.
At LALUME Dental Studio, we use cutting-edge diagnostic tools to enhance our screening capabilities beyond what’s visible to the eye alone. Our technology helps identify cellular changes in their earliest stages, when intervention may be most effective. This advanced approach complements our thorough visual examinations.
Our biomimetic technology provides detailed insights into tissue health and helps us monitor suspicious areas over time. This technology allows us to document findings precisely, track changes between visits, and make informed decisions about next steps. The combination of experienced clinical examination and sophisticated diagnostic tools gives you comprehensive screening.
Orange County residents seeking exceptional preventive dental care find a different experience at our Newport Beach practice. We combine meticulous clinical examination with advanced diagnostic technology in an environment designed for your comfort. Our concierge-level service means you receive our undivided attention during every visit, with amenities including:
Dr. Shahira Saad brings extensive training and a patient-centered philosophy to every screening. Her education at UCLA School of Dentistry, where she graduated Cum Laude, and her Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at UCLA Venice provide the foundation for thorough, accurate examinations.
Our practice focuses on minimally invasive care and takes time to explain findings clearly, ensuring you understand your oral health status and any recommended next steps. Our modern facility reflects our commitment to providing dental care that feels more like a spa visit than a medical appointment. This attention to your comfort never compromises the quality of your care.
Finding an abnormality during your screening doesn’t mean you have cancer. Most suspicious areas turn out to be benign conditions that require simple treatment or monitoring. If we identify something concerning, we’ll explain what we’ve found and recommend appropriate next steps.
These next steps may include watching the area for changes, performing a biopsy, or referring you to a physician. We coordinate with your healthcare providers to ensure you receive the care you need promptly. Early intervention addresses problems before they develop into serious conditions, which is why regular screenings matter so much.
Dr. Shahira Saad provides comprehensive oral cancer screenings using the latest diagnostic technology in a comfortable, spa-like environment. As a highly skilled dentist, Dr. Saad combines clinical excellence with a patient-centered approach. Our Newport Beach practice serves patients throughout Orange County.
We believe preventive care forms the foundation of excellent oral health. Schedule your comprehensive oral cancer screening by contacting us through our online form today.
Receive high-quality, personalized treatment recommendations from Dr. Saad and get answers to all your smile questions from the comfort of your own home.
Ample secure and safe paid parking located on-site.
Join Our VIP List
"*" indicates required fields
