Oral Cancer Screening in Baton Rouge, LA
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is a vital part of preventive dental care that involves examining the mouth, throat, lips, and surrounding tissues for early signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. At Model Dentistry, we perform these screenings during routine dental exams to ensure early detection, when treatment is most effective.
Oral cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle, though risk increases for individuals who smoke, consume alcohol regularly, or have a history of HPV. The key to survival is early diagnosis, and our team is trained to identify subtle symptoms that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
Oral cancer is often asymptomatic in its early stages. By the time symptoms appear—such as persistent sores, difficulty swallowing, or changes in voice—the disease may already be advanced. With regular screenings, we can detect irregularities early and recommend follow-up testing or referral when necessary.
Early signs we look for include:
- Unexplained sores or lesions that don’t heal
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Lumps or thickened tissue in the cheeks or gums
- Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
- Numbness in the tongue or lips
- Pain when chewing or swallowing
Our screenings are fast, non-invasive, and included as part of your routine dental visit.
What to Expect During a Screening at Model Dentistry
During your screening, our dental team will perform a comprehensive visual and physical exam of your oral cavity and surrounding areas. This includes:
- Visual examination – We check your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, throat, and roof of the mouth for discoloration, swelling, or abnormal tissue.
- Palpation – Gently feeling the jaw, neck, and lymph nodes for lumps or irregularities.
- Advanced tools – When necessary, we may use specialized lighting or diagnostic aids to examine tissue changes not visible to the naked eye.
If any suspicious areas are found, we’ll discuss next steps, which may include further observation or referral to an oral surgeon or ENT specialist for a biopsy.
Screenings are often performed during routine dental cleanings, making them a seamless part of your ongoing preventive care.
Who Should Get Screened?
Oral cancer does not discriminate, but certain factors increase your risk. We recommend regular screenings for all adult patients, especially if you:
- Use tobacco products (smoking or smokeless)
- Consume alcohol frequently
- Have been diagnosed with HPV
- Spend significant time in the sun (risk for lip cancer)
- Have a family history of cancer
- Are over the age of 40
Even if you have no symptoms, an annual screening can serve as a proactive step in protecting your overall health. As part of our commitment to general dentistry, we incorporate this service into comprehensive exams for new and returning patients.
Why Choose Model Dentistry for Oral Cancer Screenings?
At Model Dentistry, we approach oral cancer screening with the same level of care and precision we bring to every service we provide. With decades of combined experience, our team is deeply invested in your health—not just your teeth.
Reasons Baton Rouge patients trust us:
- Proactive care philosophy – We prioritize prevention and early detection, always aiming to address problems before they become complex or costly.
- Advanced diagnostic methods – When needed, we incorporate adjunctive screening technology to catch early changes in tissue health.
- Community-focused practice – Located in Central Baton Rouge, our office serves patients from Central, Zachary, Denham Springs, Baker, and beyond with personalized care rooted in trust.
- Full-spectrum dental services – Oral cancer screenings are part of a complete preventive care plan that includes periodontal therapy, tooth extractions, and restorative treatments if needed.
Early detection saves lives. That’s why we’re committed to making oral cancer screenings a routine part of your dental wellness.
Oral Cancer Screening FAQs
Is oral cancer screening painful?
No. The screening is completely painless and non-invasive. It involves visual inspection and gentle palpation of the head, neck, and oral tissues.
How often should I get screened for oral cancer?
We recommend a screening once per year for most adults, typically during your regular checkup. Patients with high-risk factors may benefit from more frequent evaluations.
Will my insurance cover oral cancer screening?
Most insurance plans include oral cancer screening as part of your preventive dental visit. Our front desk team can help you verify coverage before your appointment.
Can younger adults get oral cancer?
Yes. Although the risk increases with age, younger patients—especially those with HPV—are also susceptible. We screen adult patients of all ages.
What happens if something abnormal is found?
If we detect any irregularities, we’ll guide you through the next steps, which may include additional diagnostic imaging, a referral, or a biopsy from a trusted specialist.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening in Baton Rouge
Your health starts with awareness. At Model Dentistry, our oral cancer screenings are fast, thorough, and potentially lifesaving. Take a proactive approach to your health with a screening from a team that puts prevention first.
Call (225) 263-4704 or request an appointment online to schedule your oral cancer screening at our Baton Rouge office.
