Oral Cancer Screening
An oral cancer screening is included in every comprehensive exam. Two minutes of careful looking for the thing most people never look for themselves.
Why this quiet check matters
Oral cancer is often detected late because it rarely hurts in its early stages. A small red or white patch, a persistent sore, a lump under the tongue, none of it announces itself. The five-year survival rate for oral cancer detected early is around 86%. For late-stage detection, it drops below 40%.
Dr. Yeo performs the screening at every comprehensive exam, takes the extra minute, and documents findings over time so changes don't go unnoticed.
What the screening covers
Visual inspection of lips, tongue (top, bottom, sides), cheeks, gums, palate, and floor of mouth
Palpation of the neck and under the jaw to check lymph nodes
Comparison to prior exams — documented findings help catch slow changes
Identification of risk factors — tobacco, alcohol, HPV, sun exposure for lip cancer
Who's at higher risk
Smokers and former smokers
Heavy alcohol users
Patients with HPV infection
Adults over 40
Patients with previous head and neck cancer
Patients with significant sun exposure (for lip cancer specifically)
Even lower-risk patients get screened every exam. It's the nature of cancer that early signs can appear in people who don't fit any risk category.
What to watch for between visits
Sores that don't heal within two weeks
Persistent red or white patches
Lumps, thickening, or bumps in the mouth or neck
Numbness or difficulty moving the tongue
Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
If you notice any of these, don't wait for your next scheduled exam — call (214) 623-0880.
What it costs
Oral cancer screening is included in every comprehensive dental exam at no additional charge. Most dental insurance plans cover the comprehensive exam fully.
Other Services
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
Does the screening hurt?
What happens if something unusual is found?
Is there a separate charge for oral cancer screening?
Can I do self-checks at home?
