We usually begin an oral screening by looking for bumps, swelling, discoloration, ulcerations, lack of symmetry, or other ‘abnormalities.’

The physical examination helps identify oral cancer by inspecting the immobility of commonly mobile tissues. The patient will be asked if the exam is causing any physical discomfort or pain. As you might expect, pain could be an indicator of oral cancer symptoms. However, if there is swelling, but no detectable pain, it’s still possible that there is a larger problem to be determined.

One of the most essential things to note is that oral cancer screenings are precautionary and not inherently diagnostic. We may find nothing abnormal during a visit, but you may be asked to return for regular screenings depending on certain risk factors, such as the use of tobacco or the consumption of alcohol. However, just because something was noted during an oral cancer screening, it does not mean that the patient has oral cancer.