Oral Cancer Screenings

Early Detection. Lifesaving Prevention.

A Few Minutes Could Save Your Life

Oral cancer is often silent in its early stages — but it can become life-threatening if left undetected. That’s why at Vivid Dental of Raleigh, every comprehensive exam includes a thorough oral cancer screening.
We believe prevention goes beyond teeth and gums. It’s about your total wellness. That’s why our approach is proactive, respectful, and designed to give you peace of mind — or early answers if something doesn’t look right.
Oral cancer screenings are quick, painless, and vital. They could save your life — or the life of someone you love.
Oral Cancer Screenings

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer can develop anywhere in the mouth: on the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, or the throat.
When detected early, it is one of the most treatable cancers. However, because symptoms often go unnoticed, it’s often discovered in advanced stages — making regular screenings a crucial part of your preventive dental care.

What We Look For During a Screening

Our team is trained to spot early warning signs of oral cancer and related abnormalities. During your screening, we check for:

Unusual red or white patches in the mouth

Sores that don’t heal within 14 days
Lumps or thickened tissues
Numbness or pain without clear cause
Changes in voice or difficulty swallowing
Persistent sore throat or ear pain
We carefully examine your lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, floor and roof of the mouth, and jaw area for anything abnormal.
If we detect anything concerning, we’ll walk you through the next steps — which may include monitoring or referring you to a specialist for further evaluation.
Preventive Care You Can Trust
At Vivid Dental of Raleigh, we take your health seriously — and that means looking at the bigger picture. We don’t rush screenings, and we never dismiss concerns. Our team is trained to act with thoroughness, discretion, and urgency when it matters most.
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Screenings included in your regular exam

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Personalized health risk review

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Immediate communication if something requires attention

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Medicaid and insurance accepted

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Comfortable, judgment-free environment

We’re here not just to protect your smile, but your life.
Preventive Care You Can Trust

What to Expect During Your Screening

Oral cancer screenings are included as part of your regular dental exam at Vivid Dental of Raleigh. The process takes just a few minutes and includes:
Visual Examination

We inspect the face, lips, inside of the cheeks, gums, tongue, and throat for signs of abnormal tissue.

Physical Palpation

Gently feeling around the jaw, neck, and under the tongue for unusual lumps or firmness.

Discussion of Symptoms

We’ll ask about any changes in your voice, swallowing, or pain that may indicate concern.

There is no radiation, no discomfort, and no special preparation required.

Who Should Get Oral Cancer Screenings?

Everyone should be screened regularly, especially adults over 18. You may be at increased risk if you:
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Use tobacco or vape (current or past)

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Consume alcohol regularly

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Have a history of HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

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Have a family history of cancer

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Spend significant time in the sun (increased lip cancer risk)

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Experience chronic irritation or ulcers in the mouth

Even if you don’t fall into any of these categories, screenings are still important. Oral cancer can affect anyone — and early detection is key to survival.
Who Should Get Oral Cancer Screenings

You’re Not Too Late. You’re Right on Time.

If it’s been years since your last visit… if you’ve been living in pain… if you’ve been putting off care because you’re afraid of what we’ll find — we see you. And we’re here to walk with you through it all.

This is the place where you restart your oral health journey with a team that sees your worth, not your worries.