What is oral cancer, and what screenings are available?
Golden, Colorado, area patients who want to ensure they have proper oral health and wellness will want to be aware of changes happening in their smile that may indicate oral cancer. Our team at Dentistry at Golden Ridge provides oral cancer screenings and evaluations to help catch this condition in the earliest stages for the best possible outcome.
What is oral cancer?
Dr. Jamie Richard describes oral cancer as any cancerous growth or tumor in the mouth, jaw, throat, and esophagus. Just like cancers in other parts of the body, they can develop, grow, and spread rapidly.
Who is at risk of oral cancer?
Oral cancer typically appears in patients over 40 years old and can be caused by several different factors. Some most common risk factors include smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products, excessive alcohol consumption, and overexposure to ultraviolet light from sunlight or tanning beds. Other possible contributing factors include hormonal imbalances, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, poor nutrition, and bad oral hygiene habits.
What are some of the signs that oral cancer is present?
The symptoms of oral cancer vary, specifically depending on the area affected. But can include swollen tissues in the mouth or neck, pain when chewing food or swallowing drinks, prolonged bleeding after brushing teeth or eating hard foods, lumps or sores that will not heal, numbness in the mouth, and hoarseness or voice changes.
What do I do if I have unusual changes or growths in the oral cavity?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of oral cancer and notice changes in your smile that have not occurred before, it is critical that you see Dr. Richard immediately for a thorough oral exam. The earlier oral cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better your chances will be of beating this disease. In many cases, early detection can prevent serious complications and improve your overall quality of life.
How do I schedule an oral cancer screening?
Tongue and mouth cancer requires early detection for the best and most effective treatment. If you suspect you have oral cancer, call Dr. Jamie Richard and her team at Dentistry at Golden Ridge today at (303) 951-8515 to request an appointment at our office, conveniently located at 755 Heritage Road, Suite #120 in Golden, CO. We also serve patients in the surrounding communities of Idaho Springs, Arvada, Wheat Ridge, Littleton, Morrison, Denver and Evergreen, CO.
Oral Cancer Screening FAQs
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
Most adults benefit from an oral cancer screening at least once a year, often during their routine dental checkup. However, patients with higher risk factors, such as smoking, heavy alcohol use, or prolonged sun exposure, may be advised to schedule screenings more frequently. Regular evaluations allow Dr. Jamie Richard to identify oral tissue changes early, when treatment is most successful.
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
An oral cancer screening is fast, gentle, and non-invasive. We examine your lips, tongue, gums, throat, and the soft tissues of your mouth for any lumps, discoloration, or irregularities. We may also use a special light or mirror to help visualize areas that aren’t easily seen. The entire process usually takes less than five minutes and can be completed during your regular cleaning.
Does an oral cancer screening hurt or require any special preparation?
Not at all. Screenings are completely painless and require no anesthesia or preparation. You can eat, drink, and brush your teeth normally before your appointment. If a suspicious area is found, we may recommend additional testing or a biopsy through a trusted specialist for further evaluation.
What are the benefits of regular oral cancer screenings?
The greatest benefit is early detection. Identifying cancerous or precancerous changes in their earliest stages dramatically improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Screenings also help detect other oral issues, such as infections or abnormal tissue growths, before they become serious. Routine visits to Dentistry at Golden Ridge ensure that your oral health is monitored comprehensively, not just your teeth and gums.
How much does an oral cancer screening cost in Golden, Colorado?
The cost of a screening can vary depending on whether it’s performed as part of a comprehensive exam or as a standalone service. On average, oral cancer screenings range from $25 – $75. When completed during a regular checkup, many patients find that the cost is minimal or already included as part of their preventive care visit.
Does dental or medical insurance cover oral cancer screenings?
Yes. Most dental insurance plans include oral cancer screenings as part of their preventive care benefits, especially when done during a routine exam. Some medical insurance policies may also cover the test if it’s billed as part of a cancer prevention service. Our front office team can verify your benefits and explain any potential out-of-pocket costs before your appointment.
What if I don’t have dental insurance? Can I still get screened?
Absolutely! Dentistry at Golden Ridge welcomes uninsured patients and offers affordable payment options to ensure everyone has access to essential preventive care. Early detection saves lives, so we encourage every adult to make screenings a routine part of their oral health maintenance, regardless of insurance status.
How common is oral cancer?
In the United States, oral cancer accounts for around 3 percent of all cancers. There are approximately 30,000 new diagnoses of oral cancer every year, and, sadly, about 8,000 of those cases result in death due to the cancer being diagnosed in later stages. This late diagnosis often results in the cancer spreading to other areas of the body.
Reference: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3292826/
How can I reduce my risk of developing oral cancer?
Avoiding tobacco, moderating alcohol consumption, using sunscreen on your lips, and maintaining a diet rich in fruits and vegetables all reduce risk. Practicing good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly also play an important role. For patients with a history of HPV, vaccination and regular screenings are strongly recommended.
Is pain an early sign of oral cancer?
Pain is not usually a good indicator of oral cancer in its early stages. However, if you experience any oral pain, you should reach out to our office immediately at (303) 951-8515 for an appointment. Letting pain linger without a diagnosis may lead to costly consequences down the line.
How do I schedule an oral cancer screening?
Tongue and mouth cancer requires early detection for the best and most effective treatment. If you suspect you have oral cancer, call Dr. Jamie Richard and her team at Dentistry at Golden Ridge today at (303) 951-8515 to request an appointment at our office, conveniently located at 755 Heritage Road, Suite #120 in Golden, CO. We also serve patients in the surrounding communities of Idaho Springs, Arvada, Wheat Ridge, Littleton, Morrison, Denver and Evergreen, CO.
Core Values
Every treatment at Dentistry at Golden Ridge is guided by our core values of Excellence in professional service, continued Growth in expertise, a commitment to our patients’ overall Wellness, and a Balance between modern innovations and traditional patient-centered care.
