Oral Cancer Screening in Northwest Oklahoma City
Oral cancer is often painless and invisible in its early stages — but with early detection, it’s also highly treatable. At Legacy Family Dentistry in Northwest OKC, we include oral cancer screenings as part of our preventive care to help protect your overall health.
A Preventive Step That Could Save Your Life
Oral cancer screenings are fast, non-invasive, and potentially life-saving. During your routine dental visit, Dr. Armin Zarkeshan carefully examines your mouth, throat, and surrounding tissues for any early signs of concern — often before you notice any symptoms.
At Legacy Family Dentistry, our goal is to keep you healthy from the inside out. That’s why we make oral cancer screening a standard part of our dental exams and cleanings, especially for adults over 40 or anyone with higher risk factors.
What Does an Oral Cancer Screening Include?
This screening takes just a few minutes and is completely painless. Dr. Armin will evaluate:
- The inside of your cheeks and lips
- Your tongue (top, bottom, and sides)
- Roof and floor of the mouth
- Gums and throat
- Jaw and lymph nodes in the neck
We use visual and tactile techniques to detect abnormalities like:
- Unusual red or white patches
- Sores that don’t heal
- Lumps, bumps, or thickened tissues
- Persistent hoarseness or difficulty swallowing
If anything appears suspicious, we’ll guide you through the next steps — from additional imaging to referrals for a biopsy if needed.
Who Should Be Screened for Oral Cancer?
While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain individuals are at higher risk. You may benefit most from routine screenings if you:
- Are over the age of 40
- Use tobacco in any form
- Consume alcohol regularly
- Have had HPV or oral cancer in the past
- Spend a lot of time in the sun (lip cancer risk)
- Notice persistent changes in your mouth or throat
Even if you don’t fall into these categories, regular screenings are an important part of whole-body preventive care.
Early Detection, Local Care You Can Trust
Legacy Family Dentistry proudly serves Northwest Oklahoma City and surrounding communities, including:
- Nichols Hills
- Quail Creek
- The Village
- Lake Hefner area
- Warr Acres
- Yukon
- Greater Oklahoma County
Our screenings are always performed with compassion, privacy, and education. Dr. Armin takes the time to explain what he sees, what it means, and how to stay proactive with your oral health.
Total Wellness Starts with Preventive Dentistry
Oral cancer screening is just one piece of the comprehensive care we provide. We believe in prevention-first dentistry, with services that include:
- Fluoride Treatment to strengthen enamel
- Dental Sealants for long-term cavity protection
- Children’s Dentistry for early prevention
- Emergency Dental Care when concerns can’t wait
- Smile Makeovers to restore confidence after oral health setbacks
We don’t just treat teeth — we support your overall health with education, early detection, and judgment-free care.
Insurance & Affordability
Oral cancer screenings are typically included in your routine dental exam, and most insurance plans cover this preventive service. If you’re uninsured or underinsured, we make care accessible with:
- Cherry for easy monthly payment plans
- CareCredit and Alphaeon financing
- Our DentalHQ Membership Plan for savings on preventive care
Our team will guide you through your options before any additional steps are taken.
FAQs About Oral Cancer Screenings
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How often should I be screened for oral cancer?
We recommend screening once a year, typically during your routine dental exam. High-risk patients may need screenings more frequently.
Does an oral cancer screening hurt?
No — it’s completely painless. The screening involves a visual and physical examination of your mouth, jaw, and neck.
What are the early signs of oral cancer?
Some warning signs include persistent mouth sores, unexplained bleeding, red or white patches, and lumps or thick areas in the mouth or throat. If you notice these, schedule an appointment immediately.
Is oral cancer common?
Oral cancer is less common than some other cancers, but it’s on the rise — especially among younger people due to HPV. Early detection is key to effective treatment.
What happens if something suspicious is found?
We’ll refer you to a specialist for further testing or a biopsy. Finding something early doesn’t mean it’s cancer — but it’s critical to evaluate it quickly.