Early detection saves lives: Book your oral cancer screening today
Finch Midland Dental in Scarborough includes oral cancer screening as part of every comprehensive exam — a painless, 5-minute check that can detect abnormalities when they are most treatable. our team visually examines the mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues, palpates for irregular growths, and uses advanced screening technology when indicated. With approximately 54,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the U.S., early detection is the single most important factor in survival. Schedule your screening or call (416) 297-6109.
Oral cancer is a significant public health concern in the United States, with approximately 54,000 new cases and 10,850 deaths reported in 2021. The incidence of oral cancer has been on the rise in recent years, particularly among younger individuals who do not have traditional risk factors such as smoking or heavy alcohol consumption. Men are twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer. Early detection and regular dental check-ups are crucial for identifying oral cancer in its early stages when it is more treatable.
During an oral cancer screening, the dentist carefully examines the mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues for any signs of abnormal growth or tissue changes that may indicate cancer. The dentist looks for any changes in color, texture, or shape of the tissues, as well as any visible lesions or sores. The dentist may also palpate the mouth and neck, feeling for any lumps, bumps, or abnormal growths.
An oral cancer screening is usually done as part of a routine dental exam. In addition, individuals who are heavy smokers or have a family history of the disease are at a higher risk for oral cancer and should be screened more frequently.
Is it time for your oral cancer screening? Call us at Finch Midland Dental to schedule your appointment today.
Oral cancer screening at Finch Midland Dental is not a separate appointment — it is built into every comprehensive exam. our team systematically examines all soft tissues (tongue, floor of mouth, palate, cheeks, lips, throat, tonsils), palpates the neck and jaw for lymph node irregularities, and documents any findings for longitudinal tracking.
For patients with elevated risk factors — tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, HPV history, or a family history of cancer — we may recommend enhanced screening with VELscope or ViziLite technology at no additional cost.
Reviewed by our team · Finch Midland Dental, Scarborough
Expect Questions
During an oral cancer screening, the dentist may first ask the patient about any symptoms they have experienced, such as persistent mouth sores, difficulty swallowing or speaking, or chronic hoarseness. The dentist may also inquire about the patient's lifestyle habits, such as tobacco or alcohol use, as these are risk factors for oral cancer.
Expect a Visual Exam
The next step in an oral cancer screening is a visual examination of the mouth, palate, tongue, gums, throat, and lips. The dentist looks for any changes in color, texture, or shape of the tissues, as well as any visible lesions or sores.
Expect Palpitation
The dentist will then palpate the mouth and neck, feeling for any lumps, bumps, or abnormal growths. The dentist may also gently press on the lymph nodes in the neck to check for swelling or tenderness.
VELscope or ViziLite
The dentist may also use a VELscope or ViziLite system to aid in the detection of abnormal tissue growth. These systems use a special light that highlights any tissue changes that may be indicative of cancer.
Biopsy
If the dentist finds any suspicious areas, they may recommend an oral brush biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of tissue for further testing.
Referral
With any suspicious finding, the dentist will refer the patient to an oral surgeon or oncologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Individuals who use tobacco products, consume alcohol heavily, or have a history of HPV infection are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups can help detect oral cancer in its early stages. Consult a dental professional for an oral exam as soon as possible if you notice any of the following symptoms:
Oral cancer detected in its earliest stage has an 80%+ survival rate. Screening at every checkup gives you the best possible chance of catching it early.
The entire screening takes just five minutes, requires no needles or instruments, and causes no discomfort — making it one of the easiest tests you can have.
Oral cancer screening is a standard part of every comprehensive exam at Finch Midland Dental — no extra appointment or additional cost required.
A clear screening result gives you confidence in your health. And if something is found, you will be glad you knew early — when treatment options are most effective.
While regular dental check-ups with a healthcare professional are essential for oral cancer screening, it is also important to conduct regular at-home screenings to help detect any changes or abnormalities in your mouth. Here are the steps to conduct an at-home oral cancer screening:
An at-home oral cancer screening is not a substitute for regular dental check-ups with a healthcare professional. If you notice any changes or abnormalities during an at-home screening, it is important to schedule an appointment with a dental or healthcare professional as soon as possible for a thorough examination and diagnosis.
The VELscope system uses a special blue light that highlights abnormal tissue in the mouth. The light causes healthy tissue to fluoresce, while abnormal tissue appears dark. This technology can help identify precancerous and cancerous lesions that may not be visible to the naked eye. The VELscope system is a non-invasive and painless diagnostic tool that can be used during routine dental check-ups.
The ViziLite system is another technology that uses a blue light to detect abnormal tissue in the mouth. A special rinse is used to temporarily stain abnormal tissue, which appears white under the blue light. This technology can also help detect precancerous and cancerous lesions in the mouth. Like the VELscope system, the ViziLite system is a useful diagnostic tool that is suitable for use during routine dental check-ups.
Both the VELscope and ViziLite systems are effective diagnostic tools for the early detection of oral cancer. These technologies can help detect oral cancer in its early stages, when it is more treatable and has a higher chance of successful outcomes. In addition to early detection, these technologies can also reduce the need for invasive biopsies, which can be uncomfortable and costly.
A dental brush biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that is sometimes used to diagnose oral lesions or suspicious growths in the mouth. It involves the use of a small, soft brush that is gently rubbed against the area of concern to collect a sample of cells.
The collected cells are then sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope to determine if they are cancerous or precancerous. A dental brush biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in the dentist's office and usually does not require any anesthesia.
Dental brush biopsies are often used to diagnose oral lesions that are too small to be seen with the naked eye or that do not appear to be cancerous based on a visual examination. They are also used to monitor the growth of lesions over time and to determine the effectiveness of treatment.
While dental brush biopsies can be a useful diagnostic tool, they are not always conclusive and may need to be followed up with a more invasive biopsy or other diagnostic tests. It is important to discuss any concerns about oral lesions with a dental or healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of action.
Patients often have these questions about oral cancer screening. our team addresses each one honestly.
"I don't smoke — do I still need an oral cancer screening?"
Yes. While tobacco use significantly increases risk, approximately 25% of oral cancer cases occur in people with no traditional risk factors. HPV (human papillomavirus) is now the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers in younger adults. The screening takes less than 5 minutes, is completely painless, and is included in every comprehensive exam at no extra cost.
"What happens if you find something suspicious?"
Most findings are benign — not every sore or discoloration is cancer. If our team identifies an area of concern, the next step is typically monitoring it for 2 weeks. If it persists, a brush biopsy (painless, done in-office) can collect cells for lab analysis. If further evaluation is needed, we refer you to an oral surgeon or oncologist promptly. Early-stage oral cancer has an 80%+ survival rate.
"Is the HPV vaccine effective at preventing oral cancer?"
The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing the HPV strains (particularly HPV-16) most commonly associated with oropharyngeal cancers. The CDC recommends vaccination for boys and girls starting at age 11–12. However, the vaccine does not protect against all causes of oral cancer, so regular screening remains important regardless of vaccination status.
Oral cancer is highly treatable when detected early — but the consequences of late detection are severe.
Anyone can develop oral cancer, but those at higher risk include individuals who smoke or use tobacco products, consume excessive alcohol, have a history of HPV infection, or have a family history of cancer. Men are twice as likely as women to be diagnosed.
It is recommended to get an oral cancer screening at least once a year during your routine dental check-up. At Finch Midland Dental, screening is included in every comprehensive exam.
No, an oral cancer screening is typically painless and only takes a few minutes to complete. It involves a visual exam and gentle palpation — no needles or instruments.
our team visually examines all soft tissues in the mouth (tongue, cheeks, palate, gums, lips, throat), checks for color or texture changes, palpates the neck for lymph node irregularities, and may use VELscope or ViziLite technology for enhanced detection.
Yes. At our Scarborough dental office we offer oral cancer screening to patients in Scarborough and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Oral cancer screening is included as part of your comprehensive dental exam, which is covered by most dental insurance plans. There is typically no separate charge for the screening itself.
Watch for persistent mouth sores that don't heal within 2 weeks, white or red patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth, difficulty swallowing or chronic hoarseness, unexplained numbness in the mouth or lips, and lumps or swelling in the neck or jaw. If you notice any of these, contact our office promptly.
When detected at Stage I, oral cancer has a 5-year survival rate exceeding 80%. Early-stage treatment is typically less invasive and has significantly better outcomes than late-stage diagnosis. This is why regular screening is so important — it catches problems before they progress.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute dental or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Oral cancer screening is a preventive measure and does not guarantee detection of all cancers. A brush biopsy is a diagnostic tool; definitive diagnosis may require additional testing. Consult our team or a qualified dental or medical professional regarding any questions about your oral health. Individual risk factors and outcomes vary.
Early detection saves lives. Schedule your oral cancer screening at our Scarborough dental office today.