NORTHERN COLORADO PERIODONTICS
ORAL CANCER EXAM
ORAL CANCER
All About Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a pathologic process, which begins by producing no symptoms making it hard to recognize without an exam. There are many types of oral cancer, including teratoma, adenocarcinoma, and melanoma. The most common form of oral cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which typically originates in the lip, tongue, or mouth tissue. There are many other places in which oral cancers occur, including the salivary glands, throat, gums, and face.
Oral cancer exams may also uncover other non-cancerous forms of oral pathology including autoimmune conditions such as Oral Lichen Planus, Oral Pemphigus/Pemphigoid, and forms of desquamative gingivitis/stomatitis which can be treated and managed by Dr. Shumaker, Allen, and Sands.
It is also important to note that over 75% of oral cancers are linked with avoidable behaviors such as smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption, however, 25% of oral cancers are found in patients with no risk factors. Quitting or reducing your use of these items will reduce your risk of oral cancer.
Oral Cancer Examination
What To Expect During Your Oral Cancer Exam
The oral cancer examination is completely painless. Drs. Shumaker, Allen, and Sands will look for abnormalities and feel the face, glands, and neck for unusual bumps. A thorough visual exam inside the mouth and upper part of the throat will be performed. Any tissues which appear abnormal may require further investigation.
In many cases, Dr. Allen, Dr. Sands, and Dr. Shumaker may recommend further examination using the Velscope oral cancer screening system. Velscope is a state-of-the-art technique that uses a special light that allows us to see pathologic changes in the tissue better than we can with the naked eye.
AFTER THE EXAM
Your Post-Exam Action Plan
If suspicious abnormalities, lesions, lumps, leukoplakia (white patches), or erythroplakia (red patches) are apparent upon visual or Velscope exam, a brush biopsy, or an excisional or incisional biopsy may be necessary determine a diagnosis and if any further treatment is needed. Tissue is carefully removed from within and/or near the suspicions area and submitted to a specialist in Oral Pathology for examination under a microscope, and in some cases with advanced techniques such as immuno-fluorescence to determine a diagnosis.
Once the results of any biopsy are returned, Dr. Shumaker, Allen, or Sands will contact you immediately to go over the results and make sure you understand what is necessary if any further treatment is needed.
WHY CHOOSE NOCO PERIO?
Your Partners in Prevention
Protect your health today—schedule your oral cancer exam with Northern Colorado Periodontics. Early detection saves lives, and our trusted experts are here to provide the care you deserve. Don’t wait—book your appointment now!
FAQs
About
Oral Cancer Exams
What is an oral cancer exam?
An oral cancer exam is a quick, painless screening that checks the mouth, gums, tongue, and throat for early signs of cancer or precancerous changes. At NOCO Perio in Fort Collins and Greeley, CO, our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to detect abnormalities early—when treatment is most effective.
Why are oral cancer screenings important?
Early detection saves lives. Oral cancer can develop without obvious symptoms, but when caught early, it’s highly treatable. Regular screenings at our Fort Collins and Greeley offices help identify concerning lesions, discolorations, or tissue changes before they progress, protecting both your oral and overall health.
Who should get an oral cancer exam?
Everyone should receive routine oral cancer screenings—especially adults over 40, tobacco users, heavy drinkers, or anyone with a family history of cancer. Our Fort Collins and Greeley periodontists recommend annual exams for all patients as part of comprehensive dental care.
What happens during an oral cancer exam?
The exam typically takes just a few minutes. Our team visually inspects and gently palpates your gums, cheeks, tongue, lips, and throat to check for unusual spots, lumps, or tissue changes. At NOCO Perio in Fort Collins and Greeley, we also use advanced light technology and imaging for enhanced detection when needed.
How much does an oral cancer screening cost?
Oral cancer exams are often included as part of a regular dental checkup. At NOCO Perio, screenings are available at both our Fort Collins and Greeley offices. If further diagnostic testing or a biopsy is needed, we’ll provide a clear estimate. Many insurance plans cover routine oral cancer screenings.
