Oral Cancer Screening in Upper Marlboro, MD

Early Detection Saves Lives

At Westphalia Dental Implant Center, every dental exam includes a thorough oral cancer screening. This quick and painless step can make a life-saving difference—especially when oral cancer is detected early.

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Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter

Oral cancer affects thousands of people each year, often with few symptoms in its early stages. That’s why regular screenings during your dental checkups are so important—early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes.

During every routine dental exam and cleaning, we check for signs of abnormalities in your:

  • Gums
  • Tongue
  • Cheeks
  • Lips
  • Roof and floor of the mouth
  • Throat

We serve patients across Upper Marlboro, Clinton, District Heights, Largo, and beyond—providing comprehensive preventive care that looks beyond just your teeth.

What to Expect During Your Oral Cancer Screening

The screening is fast, non-invasive, and part of your standard exam:

  1. Visual exam – We inspect your lips, face, neck, and inside of your mouth for unusual discoloration or sores.
  2. Tactile exam – We gently feel your jaw, neck, and oral tissues to detect lumps, swelling, or thickened areas.
  3. Discussion of symptoms – We’ll ask about any changes in your voice, swallowing, or persistent sores.

If we notice anything unusual, we may recommend further evaluation or refer you for a biopsy—but in many cases, these screenings offer peace of mind and nothing more.

Who Should Get Oral Cancer Screenings?

We recommend everyone over age 18 receive a screening at least once a year. However, patients with higher risk factors may need more frequent checks, especially those who:

  • Use tobacco or vape products
  • Consume alcohol regularly
  • Have HPV (human papillomavirus)
  • Have a family history of cancer
  • Spend significant time in the sun (risk of lip cancer)

Whether you’re in Camp Springs, Forestville, or Capitol Heights, our dental team is trained to spot signs early—often before you notice symptoms yourself.

Prevention Starts with Awareness

You can lower your risk of oral cancer by maintaining good habits, such as:

  • Brushing and flossing daily
  • Getting regular dental checkups
  • Avoiding tobacco products
  • Moderating alcohol consumption
  • Using SPF lip balm outdoors

And, of course, staying consistent with your oral cancer screenings.

Dental Care That Looks at the Big Picture

At Westphalia Dental Implant Center, your health is our priority. We don’t just clean teeth—we take the time to examine your entire oral cavity, so nothing goes unnoticed. We proudly serve patients throughout Prince George’s County and surrounding communities with:

  • Thorough preventive care
  • A warm, judgment-free environment
  • State-of-the-art diagnostic technology

Explore our full general dentistry services to see how we can support your total oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an oral cancer screening painful?

No, the screening is completely painless. It involves a visual and physical exam of your mouth, head, and neck area, with no poking or scraping.

How long does the screening take?

The screening usually takes less than 5 minutes and is included as part of your routine dental exam.

What are early signs of oral cancer?

Early signs can include persistent mouth sores, red or white patches, lumps, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness. Many patients, however, experience no symptoms—making regular screenings essential.

Is oral cancer common?

Oral cancer is more common than many people realize. It can affect people of any age, though it's more frequently diagnosed in adults over 40, especially those with certain lifestyle or genetic risk factors.

Does insurance cover oral cancer screening?

Yes—oral cancer screenings are typically included in your routine preventive dental exam, which is often covered by dental insurance. If you’re uninsured, our Smile Savings Plan offers affordable access to preventive services.

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Schedule Your Oral Cancer
Screening Today

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Let’s protect your health together with early detection and consistent care.