At Switch Dental in Lower Hutt, we include a gentle oral cancer screening as part of every adult check-up—because sometimes, it’s the things you don’t feel that matter most. This simple, non-invasive exam takes only a few minutes and helps us keep an eye out for changes that may need a closer look. You likely won’t even notice it’s happening, but it could be one of the most important checks we do.
Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, roof and floor of the mouth, tonsils, or throat. It often starts silently—no pain, no clear symptoms. That’s why it’s so important to check regularly. During every comprehensive or new patient exam, we’ll gently examine:
- The inside of your mouth, tongue, cheeks, lips, and palate
- The movement of your jaw and function of your lymph nodes
- The outside of your face and neck for any subtle lumps or asymmetries
If we see something that doesn’t quite belong, it doesn’t necessarily mean something serious—but it’s always worth keeping an eye on. We may recommend a review in a few weeks or a referral to a specialist for peace of mind.
We don’t want to create unnecessary worry—but some people do have higher risk factors. These include:
- A history of smoking or heavy alcohol use
- HPV (especially HPV-16, which is linked to throat cancer)
- Excessive sun exposure (lip cancer risk)
- A family history of oral cancers
- Older age or a weakened immune system
Even if none of these apply to you, oral cancer can still happen—which is why we screen everyone, every time.
Is oral cancer screening painful?
Nope. It’s completely painless. We use visual inspection and gentle palpation—just a light feel under your jaw and along your cheeks and neck.
How often should I be screened?
At least once a year, usually at your check-up. If you have higher risk factors, we may recommend more frequent monitoring.
What happens if something looks suspicious?
We’ll talk you through it clearly. In many cases, it’s something minor like a bite ulcer or irritation. But if it needs a closer look, we’ll guide you through next steps or refer you to an oral specialist.
Why Switch Dental?
We don’t just “tick the box.” Our dentists are trained to spot early changes, and we’ve seen firsthand how valuable these routine checks can be.
- Every check-up includes a head, neck, and oral cancer screening
- We explain clearly and calmly if anything is spotted—no panic, just a plan
- We’ll guide you through the next steps if needed
- Our approach is gentle, preventative, and always with your best interests in mind
It’s not about scare tactics. It’s about doing right by you.
