What is Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer screening is a quick and painless examination performed by a dental professional to look for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in the mouth. The goal is to detect oral cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable. During the screening, Dr. Bonin will examine your mouth, lips, gums, and throat for any abnormalities or suspicious areas.

Importance of Oral Cancer Screening

• Early Detection: Identifies oral cancer at an early stage, improving the chances of successful treatment.
• Prevention: Helps detect precancerous conditions that can be treated before they develop into cancer.
• Peace of Mind: Provides reassurance that your oral health is being monitored closely.

Who Should Get Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer screening is recommended for all adults, especially those with risk factors such as:

1. Tobacco Use: Smoking or using smokeless tobacco products.
2. Heavy Alcohol Use: Frequent and excessive alcohol consumption.
3. HPV Infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV-16.
4. Age: Being over the age of 40.
5. Sun Exposure: Excessive exposure to the sun, which can affect the lips.
6. Family History: Having a family history of oral cancer or other cancers.

The Oral Cancer Screening Process

• Visual Examination: Dr. Scott Bonin will visually inspect your lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and the roof and floor of your mouth. He will look for any red or white patches, sores, lumps, or other abnormalities.
• Physical Examination: Dr. Bonin will gently feel the tissues in your mouth and throat to detect any lumps or irregularities.
• Special Tools: In some cases, special tools may be used to enhance the examination. For example, a light or dye may be used to make abnormal cells more visible.
• Discussion: If any suspicious areas are found, Dr. Bonin will discuss the findings with you and recommend further testing or a biopsy to determine the nature of the abnormality.

Benefits of Regular Oral Cancer Screening

• Timely Intervention: Allows for prompt treatment of detected issues.
• Reduced Risk: Helps lower the risk of advanced oral cancer by catching it early.
• Health Monitoring: Provides regular monitoring of your oral health, ensuring any changes are noticed quickly.

Why Choose Bonin Dental Care for Oral Cancer Screening?

• Experienced Team: Dr. Scott Bonin and our staff have extensive experience in conducting thorough oral cancer screenings.
• Advanced Techniques: We use the latest tools and techniques to ensure accurate and effective screenings.
• Comprehensive Care: We provide a full range of dental services, ensuring your overall oral health is well-maintained.
• Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize your health and well-being, offering personalized care and support.

Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today

Protect your health with regular oral cancer screenings at Bonin Dental Care. Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes. Contact us to schedule your screening appointment. Call us at (707) 838-1400 or use our online contact form. Dr. Scott Bonin and our team are here to provide you with comprehensive, compassionate care.