Oral Cancer Screening

Oral Cancer Screening in Leesburg, VA

Early Detection. Peace of Mind. Life-Saving Care.

Oral cancer is one of the few cancers that has seen a rise in cases recently, yet it is highly treatable when caught early. At Leesburg Dental, we are committed to protecting your overall health, not just your smile. That is why we include a comprehensive Oral Cancer Screening as a critical part of your regular dental exams.

Dr. Jose Loza and our team use a combination of visual analysis and modern diagnostic technology to identify precancerous conditions before they become visible to the naked eye.

Why Screenings Are Vital

Oral cancer can develop without pain or obvious symptoms in its early stages. By the time visible sores appear, the disease may have advanced.

The Statistic: When found early, the survival rate for oral cancer is 80–90%.
The Reality: Without screening, most cases are found in late stages, significantly lowering survival rates.
The Solution: A 5-minute, non-invasive exam at our Leesburg office can save your life.

Man smiling and relaxed in the dental chair

Who Is at Risk?

While tobacco and alcohol use are traditional risk factors, the face of oral cancer is changing. The HPV virus has led to an increase in oral cancer among younger, healthy non-smokers. You should be screened if:

You are over the age of 18 (screenings should happen annually).
You use tobacco products of any kind.
You are a heavy consumer of alcohol.
You have a history of significant sun exposure (lip cancer).

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Man getting his teeth inspected at the dentist.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Between visits, please call us immediately if you notice:

A sore or irritation that doesn’t heal within two weeks.
Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth.
Pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or lips.
A lump, thickening, or rough spot in the cheek or neck.
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving your tongue.

How We Screen for Oral Cancer

We utilize a thorough, multi-step process to ensure nothing is missed:

Visual Exam: We inspect the soft tissues of your mouth, including the tongue, lips, cheeks, and roof of the mouth, looking for asymmetries or discolorations.
Physical Palpation: We gently feel the jaw, neck, and lymph nodes for any lumps or firm nodules.
Advanced Technology: As a modern practice, we utilize state-of-the-art digital imaging and screening lights when necessary to highlight abnormal tissue that appears healthy under normal white light.

Your Health is Our Priority

An oral cancer screening is fast, painless, and invisible—but its impact is immense. If it has been more than six months since your last dental visit, it is time to check in on your health.

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