Moreno Valley Dentist
Lifesaving Oral Cancer Screenings in Moreno Valley
When you visit the dentist, you probably expect us to check for cavities and gum disease. But at Moreno Beach Dental, our commitment to your well-being goes much further than your teeth. We view the mouth as the gateway to your entire body, and monitoring the health of your oral tissues is a critical part of our preventative care.
Dr. Myung Kee Park, FAGD, and our dedicated clinical team perform a comprehensive oral cancer screening during every routine checkup. Because oral cancer often goes unnoticed in its earliest stages, catching it early is the absolute best defense. We are proud to provide this lifesaving, proactive service to our patients throughout Moreno Valley, Riverside, Perris, Beaumont, Redlands, Loma Linda, and Grand Terrace.
However, when oral cancer is detected early, the treatment success rate is incredibly high. By making these quick screenings a standard part of your six-month hygiene visits, we significantly increase the chances of catching abnormalities before they become a serious health threat.
Dr. Myung Kee Park, FAGD, and our dedicated clinical team perform a comprehensive oral cancer screening during every routine checkup. Because oral cancer often goes unnoticed in its earliest stages, catching it early is the absolute best defense. We are proud to provide this lifesaving, proactive service to our patients throughout Moreno Valley, Riverside, Perris, Beaumont, Redlands, Loma Linda, and Grand Terrace.
Why Early Detection Matters
Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. In its initial stages, it can be easily ignored because it often mimics a common cold sore or a minor bite on the cheek, and it is rarely painful.However, when oral cancer is detected early, the treatment success rate is incredibly high. By making these quick screenings a standard part of your six-month hygiene visits, we significantly increase the chances of catching abnormalities before they become a serious health threat.
What to Expect During Your Screening
Your oral cancer screening is seamlessly integrated into your regular dental exam. It only takes a couple of minutes, requires no special preparation, and is completely painless. Dr. Park uses his advanced FAGD training to meticulously examine both the inside and outside of your mouth:- Visual Inspection: We look for any asymmetries, swelling, bumps, patches of color (usually red or white), ulcerations, or sores that haven't healed. We will carefully examine the roof and floor of your mouth, the inside of your cheeks, and the back of your throat.
- Physical Palpation: Dr. Park will gently feel the tissues of your mouth, jaw, and neck to check for hidden lumps, hardened masses, or swollen lymph nodes that might indicate an underlying issue.
Understanding Your Risk Factors
While oral cancer can affect anyone—even those with excellent oral hygiene—certain lifestyle factors can significantly increase your risk. It is especially important to stay up-to-date with your screenings if you fall into any of the following categories:- Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless chewing tobacco is the highest risk factor.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol use, especially when combined with tobacco, dramatically increases the risk.
- Sun Exposure: Frequent, prolonged sun exposure is linked to cancer of the lips.
- HPV Infection: Certain strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) are closely associated with cancers of the throat and the base of the tongue.
- Age and Gender: Oral cancer is more common in men and individuals over the age of 40.
Book Now
Please fill out the form below, and someone from our team will get in touch with you as soon as we can to schedule your appointment.
FAQs
How long does an oral cancer screening take?
The entire process takes less than three minutes! Because it is performed at the same time as your regular dental checkup, it does not add any extra time to your scheduled appointment.
Does the screening hurt?
Not at all. The screening consists of a visual examination of your mouth and throat, followed by a gentle touch (palpation) along your neck and jawline. It is entirely non-invasive and completely comfortable.
What are the early signs of oral cancer I should look out for at home?
Between your dental visits, you should contact us if you notice any persistent changes in your mouth. Watch out for sores that bleed easily or don't heal within two weeks, velvety white or red patches, unexplained numbness, difficulty swallowing or chewing, or a feeling that something is constantly caught in your throat.
How often should I be screened for oral cancer?
The American Dental Association recommends that adults get an oral cancer screening at least once a year. At Moreno Beach Dental, we prioritize your health by performing this quick check during every six-month routine exam.
Disclaimer: Please note that the provided information above is based on general knowledge, and it's always recommended to consult with Dr. Myung Kee Park or our dental team for personalized advice and recommendations regarding your or your child's specific dental needs and conditions.
