Oral Cancer Screening in NW Calgary
A quick, painless screening at every checkup that catches problems early, when they are most treatable.
About Oral Cancer Screening at Bow River Dental
Here at Bow River Dental, we care not only for your smile but for your overall health as well. If you are looking for oral cancer screening in Calgary, we include a quick, painless screening at every checkup, because early detection saves lives.
The screening is part of your routine exam and is included with every cleaning. Learn more about Check-Ups & Cleanings.
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick check of your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, floor of the mouth, palate and throat for anything unusual. Your dentist looks for sores, patches, lumps or changes in colour or texture, and feels the tissues of your mouth, jaw and neck for anything abnormal.
Oral cancer is far easier to treat when it is caught early, and dentists often see the first signs during routine visits. Because the exam is visual and tactile, it takes only a few minutes and needs no special equipment or preparation.
Signs to Watch For
- A mouth sore or ulcer that does not heal within two weeks
- Red or white patches on the gums, tongue or cheeks
- A lump, thickening or rough spot in the mouth or neck
- Persistent pain, numbness or tingling in the mouth or lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing or moving the jaw or tongue
- A sore throat or hoarse voice that lasts
- Loose teeth or dentures that suddenly stop fitting
These signs are often caused by something harmless, but it is safest to have them checked. Book a visit if any of them last more than two weeks.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Anyone can develop oral cancer, but some factors raise the risk. These include tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, HPV infection, a lot of sun exposure to the lips, a family history of cancer and being over 40. Regular screening is important for everyone and especially for people with these risk factors.
What Is Included
- A visual and tactile exam of the mouth, tongue, gums, cheeks and throat
- A quick, painless screening at every checkup
- Included with every cleaning
- A clear explanation of what we see
- Access to a referral network if further care is needed
What to Expect at Your Screening
- 1Health history. We ask about your health, habits and any changes you have noticed.
- 2Visual exam. Your dentist looks carefully at all areas of your mouth and throat.
- 3Tactile exam. Your dentist gently feels your jaw, neck and mouth tissues for lumps or changes.
- 4Results. We tell you what we found and whether anything needs follow-up.
What Happens After Your Screening
Most screenings show nothing of concern, and we simply note your results and screen you again at your next visit. If we see something unusual, we may ask you to return in a couple of weeks to see whether it heals, or refer you to a specialist for further tests. Finding a problem early gives you the most options and the best outcome.
Why Choose Bow River Dental for Oral Cancer Screening
- A quick, painless screening at every checkup
- Included with every cleaning
- A referral network if further care is needed
- Judgement-free care for patients of all ages
- Fees that follow the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide
- Direct insurance billing, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is accepted
- 20+ years of care and trusted by 10,000+ families
- Evening and Saturday appointments, free parking and a convenient NW Calgary location, with a 4.5 rating from 277 Google reviews
Related Treatments
- Check-Ups & Cleanings: your regular exam and cleaning
- Periodontal Treatment: for gum health
- Bad Breath Treatment: for lasting fresh breath
Cost of Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screening is included with every cleaning, so there is no separate charge for the screening itself. The cost of your visit depends on the exam and cleaning you need. Bow River Dental follows the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide, and we explain your costs before we begin. We bill most insurance plans directly and welcome eligible patients using the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Call 403-247-0999 for a personalized quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an oral cancer screening painful?
No. The screening is quick and painless. Your dentist looks at your mouth and throat and gently feels your jaw and neck, which most people find no different from a routine exam.
How often should I have an oral cancer screening?
We include a screening at every checkup, which for most people means about twice a year. If you have risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol use or a history of oral cancer, your dentist may recommend closer monitoring.
What are the early signs of oral cancer?
Early signs include a sore that does not heal within two weeks, red or white patches, a lump or thickened area, ongoing numbness or pain, and difficulty chewing or swallowing. Many of these have harmless causes, but they should always be checked. Early oral cancer is often painless, which is why regular screening matters.
What if my dentist finds something unusual?
Try not to worry, because most unusual findings turn out to be harmless. Your dentist may monitor the area for a short time or refer you to a specialist for further tests. We explain each step and help you get the care you need.
Is oral cancer screening covered by insurance?
The screening is included with every cleaning, so it is part of your regular exam. Many insurance plans cover routine exams and cleanings, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan lists exams among the services it may cover. We bill most insurance plans directly.
Book Your Screening
Ready for peace of mind? Call Bow River Dental or book online, and we will find a time that works for you.
- Monday: 9 AM to 4 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM to 8 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM to 8 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM to 6 PM
- Friday: 9 AM to 4 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Bow River Dental, 4411 16 Ave NW Suite 110, Calgary, AB T3B 0M3
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