How Routine Dental Exams Can Detect Early Signs of Oral Cancer

When you think of a routine dental exam, you probably imagine cleanings, X-rays, and checking for cavities. But at Juban Cowen Dental Care in Baton Rouge, we go beyond basic care. One of the most critical components of your regular checkup is an oral cancer screening—a quick, painless evaluation that could help save your life.

The Importance of Early Detection

Oral cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Like many cancers, it can be difficult to detect in its early stages without a professional examination. Unfortunately, when left untreated, oral cancer can be aggressive and life-threatening.

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, nearly 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year, and approximately one person dies every hour from the disease. The five-year survival rate is about 68%, but early detection can significantly improve outcomes.

That’s why at Juban Cowen Dental Care, every routine dental exam includes an oral cancer screening—because your health is our priority.

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

During your dental exam at our Baton Rouge office, our team will:

• Visually inspect your mouth, lips, gums, and throat for abnormalities
• Feel for unusual lumps or hard spots in your neck or jaw
• Examine soft tissues for discoloration, sores, or changes in texture
• Ask about any symptoms like persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness

This process takes only a few minutes but can provide critical early warning signs that prompt further testing or referral to a specialist.

Who Is at Risk?

While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain risk factors increase your chances:

• Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• HPV infection (especially HPV-16)
• Age 40+, although cases are rising in younger adults
• Prolonged sun exposure can affect the lips
• Family history of cancer

If you have one or more of these risk factors, it’s especially important to stay up to date on your dental checkups.

Baton Rouge’s Trusted Partner in Oral Health

At Juban Cowen Dental Care, we are proud to serve patients throughout Baton Rouge, Prairieville, Denham Springs, and surrounding Louisiana communities. Our experienced team is committed to providing comprehensive preventive care, which includes vigilant monitoring for signs of oral cancer.

We believe in educating our patients and empowering them with the knowledge to protect their overall health, not just their smiles.

Schedule Your Dental Exam Today

Routine dental exams do more than protect your teeth and oral health—they could save your life. If it has been more than six months since your last checkup, now is the time to schedule your next visit.

Contact Juban Cowen Dental Care in Baton Rouge, LA, today to book your appointment and let us help you stay healthy, informed, and confident in your care.