Oral Cancer Screening in Peterborough, ON

Early detection for your health and peace of mind. Quick, comfortable screenings help catch concerns early—so you can act sooner and protect your overall well-being.

Trusted Screening Care in Peterborough

Oral cancer can develop without pain or obvious symptoms. During your routine visit, we perform a thorough screening of your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, palate, and throat. The exam takes just a few minutes and is an important part of safeguarding your health.

What Screening Looks For

We carefully check soft tissues and lymph nodes for changes such as non-healing sores, red or white patches, thickened areas, lumps, numbness, hoarseness, or swallowing difficulty. Noting small changes early allows faster diagnosis and better outcomes.

Why Early Detection Matters

Many early lesions are painless. Regular screening helps identify issues when they’re most treatable, provides clear answers sooner, and gives you practical steps to lower risk.

Common Risk Factors for Adults

Risk increases with tobacco use (including vaping), frequent alcohol consumption, certain HPV strains, high sun exposure to the lips, a history of head and neck cancer, and age over 40. Even without these factors, screening is still recommended.

Two dental professionals in black scrubs discuss dental images on a computer screen.

Screening for Every Stage of Adulthood

Young Adults (18–39)

Baseline screening and education about HPV risks
Guidance on healthy habits, sun protection for lips, and vaping/tobacco avoidance
Coaching on self-checks between visits

Adults (40–64)

Annual screening, or more often for higher-risk patients
Review of medications and medical history that may affect tissues
Support for lifestyle changes that reduce risk

Seniors (65+)

Careful assessment of denture fit and tissue irritation
Monitoring of slow-healing spots and dry mouth concerns
Coordination with your physician when needed

Our Team

Say Hello to Peterborough’s Smile Experts

Our team shares a commitment to excellence and a passion for creating healthy, confident smiles. We'll treat you like family, delivering the highest standard of care in a warm, welcoming environment.

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Modern Care for Better Outcomes

Experience the difference of modern dentistry with our state-of-the-art CEREC technology, offering same-day crowns and restorations. No more temporary crowns or return visits – get your perfect smile in a single appointment.

Same-Day Emergency Care

Life doesn't wait for dental emergencies, and neither do we. Our dedicated team provides same-day emergency appointments, ensuring you get prompt relief when you need it most.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Before Your Visit

We recommend:

Sharing tobacco, alcohol, and sun exposure history
Letting us know about any sores, lumps, or voice changes lasting 2+ weeks
Bringing your medication list and medical history

During Your Appointment

Visual Exam: We inspect all oral tissues, including the tongue (top/underside) and throat
Palpation: We gently feel the jawline and neck for enlarged or firm nodes
Documentation: Any findings are recorded; photos may be taken for comparison
Next Steps: If something looks suspicious, we’ll discuss monitoring or refer for a biopsy

Frequently Asked Questions

Is screening covered by insurance?

Screening is typically included in routine exams. We’ll review your benefits and any expected costs before your visit.

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Is HPV related to oral cancers?

Certain HPV strains are linked to oropharyngeal cancers. We screen the area and suggest medical follow-up when indicated.

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Are dentures a concern?

Ill-fitting dentures can irritate tissues. We’ll check fit and look for sore spots or changes beneath the appliance.

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Can oral cancer occur without smoking or drinking?

Yes. Anyone can develop oral cancer, which is why routine screening is recommended for all adults.

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What happens if you find something?

We’ll explain the finding, review options, and—if appropriate—arrange a timely referral for a biopsy or specialist evaluation.

What symptoms should prompt a visit?

Sores that don’t heal, red or white patches, lumps, persistent sore throat, voice changes, or swallowing difficulty lasting more than two weeks.

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What are common risk factors?

Tobacco use, frequent alcohol consumption, certain HPV strains, high sun exposure to the lips, age over 40, and family history.

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Does it hurt?

No. Screening involves a visual check and gentle palpation that takes only a few minutes.

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How often should I be screened?

At least once a year during your checkup. Higher-risk patients may benefit from more frequent screenings.

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What is an oral cancer screening?

A non-invasive exam of your mouth, throat, and neck to check for early signs of cancer or precancerous changes.

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Connect with Us

We’d love to make your next dental visit a great one! Call (705) 996-7035 or schedule online to book your appointment—we’ll be in touch soon to confirm.

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