Intraoral and Extraoral Cancer Screening in Newtown, PA

Oral and oropharyngeal cancers are among the most common dental-related cancers. At Newtown Dental Arts, we emphasize early detection because the earlier it’s found, the better the outcome.

Our trained dental professionals and hygienists are uniquely positioned to identify early signs of oral cancer, even when symptoms are subtle or mimic common oral conditions. We routinely review your health history, perform comprehensive examinations, and refer for biopsy if we detect suspicious findings.

What Is Oral Cancer Screening Used For?

Oral cancer screenings allow your dentist to detect tissue changes early, often before pain or visible signs develop. We recommend screenings every six months as part of your routine dental care.

Common Signs We Look For:

• Tissue color changes
• Unusual lesions or growths
• Non-healing ulcers or sores
• Swelling or bone overgrowth
• Persistent discomfort or sensitivity

Tobacco use significantly increases the risk of oral cancer by as much as 15 to 30 times, making regular screenings even more essential for smokers or former users.

When to Consult Your Dentist

Early detection is critical for successful treatment. Here’s what we look for during each type of screening:

Extraoral Signs of Oral Cancer

• Sores, blisters, or wounds on the lips that do not heal
• Discoloration, hard lumps, or swelling, especially along the vermilion border
• Lower lip lesions (most lip cancers occur here)
• Texture changes in the skin or tissues around the mouth

Intraoral Signs of Oral Cancer

• Red or white patches (erythroplakia or leukoplakia)
• Non-healing ulcers, especially on the tongue
• Raised or firm lesions inside the mouth
• Canker-like sores that don’t go away or feel lumpy to the touch
• Risk factors include smoking, alcohol, HPV, gender (more common in men), and family history.