Oral Cancer Often Goes Undetected Until It's Serious

Oral cancer doesn’t always come with pain or obvious symptoms,  which is why it’s often missed in its early stages. Many patients feel fine and have no visible signs until the disease has progressed. This makes routine screenings during dental checkups essential. Dentists are often the first line of defence in detecting oral cancers early when treatment is most effective.

At Glenmore Park Dental, every exam includes a visual and tactile screening for signs of oral cancer, helping you stay proactive about your health. It’s not just about cavities; it’s about catching the things you might not even know to look for. 

What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is a quick, non-invasive exam that looks for signs of abnormal tissue or suspicious changes in the mouth, throat, and surrounding areas. It typically takes just a few minutes and involves:

• A visual check of the lips, cheeks, tongue, floor and roof of the mouth, and the back of the throat
• Gentle palpation of the neck, jaw, and lymph nodes to feel for lumps or irregularities
• Use of lights or mirrors to get better visibility of hard-to-see areas

You won’t need to do anything special before your screening. It’s built right into your routine exam and hygiene visit.

Who Should Get Screened?

Everyone benefits from oral cancer screenings, but some individuals have a higher risk, including:

• Adults over age 40
• People who smoke or use tobacco
• Heavy alcohol users
• Individuals with HPV (human papillomavirus)
• Those with a family history of cancer
• People with excessive sun exposure (which can increase lip cancer risk)

Even if you don’t fall into one of these categories, routine screenings help establish a baseline — so your dentist can spot changes early.

Common Signs of Oral Cancer to Watch For

While many symptoms can go unnoticed without a screening, some signs you might notice include:

• A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal
• A lump or thickening in the cheek
• White or red patches on the tongue, gums, or lining of the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
• Numbness or pain in the mouth or jaw
• A change in how your teeth fit together

If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it’s important to see a dental professional right away.

The Importance of Early Detection

Oral cancer has one of the highest mortality rates among cancers — not because it’s especially aggressive, but because it’s often diagnosed too late. When caught early, the five-year survival rate for oral cancer is over 80%. That’s why screening during your regular checkup is so valuable.

At Glenmore Park Dental, we’re committed to preventive care. Every patient receives an oral cancer screening as part of their comprehensive exam — not just those with obvious symptoms.

Oral Cancer Screening at Glenmore Park Dental

Here’s what you can expect when you visit our Calgary dental clinic:

• A comfortable, judgement-free environment
• Thorough screening included in your exam — no separate appointment needed
• A dental team trained to recognize subtle signs of potential concern
• Clear explanations of any findings and next steps if needed
• Referrals to specialists if further investigation is required

Our approach is gentle, proactive, and patient-first. We make sure you understand what we’re looking for and why it matters — because your health is more than just your teeth. 

Don’t Skip Your Next Exam — It Could Save Your Life

Oral cancer screening takes only a few minutes, but it could be one of the most important parts of your dental exam. Whether you live in Glenbrook, Lakeview, Rutland Park, or Marda Loop, Glenmore Park Dental is here to protect your smile and your overall health. Contact us to book your next checkup today and gain peace of mind knowing that we’re screening for more than just cavities.