Oral Cancer Screenings

What is a Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer screening involves a visual and physical examination of the mouth, lips, tongue, gums, and throat, looking for any abnormalities or signs of potential cancer. Dentists are typically the first line of defense in oral cancer detection, conducting routine screenings during dental checkups. Dr Hobbs completes a throughout head and neck cancer exam on EVERY patient.

Why are Oral Cancer Screenings important?

Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Many oral cancers are found in their later stages, when treatment is more challenging and the prognosis is less favorable.

What does am Oral Cancer Screening involve?

Dr Hobbs will visually inspect the inside of the mouth, looking for any red or white patches, sores, lumps, or other unusual changes in color or texture.

What to do if something suspicious is found?

If Dr Hobbs identifies any suspicious areas during the screening, she will recommend further evaluation, such as a biopsy. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue for microscopic examination to determine if cancer is present.

What are the risk factors of Oral Cancer?

While everyone is at risk for oral cancer, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing it, including:

  • Tobacco use:
    Smoking and chewing tobacco significantly increase the risk.
  • Heavy alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol use is another risk factor.
  • HPV infection:
    Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause oral cancer.
  • Age:
    The risk of oral cancer increases with age.
  • Sun exposure:
    Excessive sun exposure can increase the risk of lip cancer.
What type of Oral Pathology training has Dr. Hobbs received?

Dr. Hobbs attended the prestigious University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) where she received over six months of Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine Training . She has diagnosed many oral cancers on her patient and ALWAYS completed a head and neck oral cancer screening on all her patients. If Dr Hobbs observes a suspicious lesion in the mouth she will recommend a biopsy and will send off for histological analysis in a Oral Pathology Lab.

She has successfully helped patient with Lichen Planus and Burning Mouth Syndrome reduce or eliminate their symptoms.