Why oral cancer screenings matter?

Oral cancer screenings may seem like a small part of a routine dental visit, but they can have a life‑saving impact.

According to Tiffany Tavares, DDS, an oral medicine specialist at UT Dentistry, many cases of oral cancer develop quietly. “Early on, oral cancer often doesn’t cause pain or obvious symptoms,” she explains. “That’s why routine screenings are so important. Patients may feel completely fine and have no idea that anything is wrong.”

What happens during an oral cancer screening?

Oral cancer screenings are quick, painless and non‑invasive. During the exam, your general dentistry provider carefully checks the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth and throat for anything unusual. This includes looking for changes in color, texture or symmetry, as well as feeling for lumps or areas of firmness.

Because dental providers are trained to recognize subtle changes, they can often detect concerns before they are visible or symptomatic. That early awareness can make a critical difference in outcomes.

“Catching something early can completely change the course of care,” Dr. Tavares says. “Screenings allow us to monitor changes closely and take action before a condition becomes more serious.”

When oral cancer is detected early, treatment options are usually less invasive and more effective. Early diagnosis is linked to higher survival rates and a reduced risk of complications that can affect speaking, eating or swallowing.

Who should get screened?

Oral cancer screenings are recommended for all adults, even those without symptoms. However, they are especially important for people with higher risk factors, including:

• Tobacco use (smoking or smokeless tobacco)
• Heavy alcohol use
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Prolonged sun exposure, which increases the risk of lip cancer

Even without known risk factors, routine screenings are a proactive way to support overall health. Dentists often see patients more regularly than other healthcare providers, placing them in a unique position to identify concerns early and guide next steps in care.

Specialized expertise when it matters most

At the UT Dentistry Oral Medicine Clinic, specialists evaluate complex or concerning oral findings and determine whether additional testing or close monitoring is needed. Patients with specific symptoms, unusual lesions or provider-identified concerns may be referred to the clinic for advanced care, ensuring timely diagnosis and appropriate follow-up.

Oral cancer screenings take a proactive step in protecting your health and are a part of every comprehensive dental exam at UT Dentistry. To find a dental provider or learn more, visit UTDentistry.org or call 210‑450‑3700.