Oral Cancer Screenings

in Chino, CA

The first step in an oral cancer screening is a visual examination of your mouth. Dr. Mardirossian will look for any abnormalities such as sores, white or red patches, or unusual growths in your mouth, throat, and on your tongue. Using a bright light and dental mirror, he will carefully inspect all surfaces of the oral cavity, including under the tongue and the roof of your mouth. This thorough examination helps identify any concerning areas that require closer attention.

After the visual examination, Dr. Mardirossian will conduct a physical examination. This involves feeling the tissues in your mouth to detect any abnormalities or lumps. He will check your head, cheeks, jaw, and neck for any unusual swelling or nodules. During this examination, you may be asked to swallow or move your tongue to better assess the movement and functionality of your oral structures. This hands-on approach helps identify issues that might not be visible to the naked eye.

If any abnormalities are found during the visual or physical examination, further tests may be needed. This could include a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken and sent for laboratory testing to determine whether cancer cells are present. Additional diagnostic tools might include special dyes or lights that help highlight abnormal tissues, and imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans may be recommended to get a more detailed view of any suspicious areas. Early detection through these comprehensive screening methods significantly improves treatment outcomes.