Oral Cancer Screening in Marysville, CA

What Happens During a Screening

Dr. Kattuah visually examines the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, and the back of the throat. The exam also includes gently feeling the tissues for unusual lumps, thickening, or texture changes. The entire process takes only a few minutes and causes no discomfort.

Risk Factors to Be Aware Of

While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors may increase your risk. These include tobacco use in any form, heavy alcohol consumption, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, extended sun exposure to the lips, and a personal or family history of cancer. It is worth noting that oral cancer can also occur in individuals with none of these risk factors, making routine screening important for every patient.

Signs to Watch For Between Visits

Contact our office if you notice any of the following: a sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal within two weeks, a persistent lump or thickened area, white or red patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth, difficulty swallowing or chewing, or unexplained numbness in the mouth or lips. These signs do not necessarily indicate cancer, but they should be evaluated promptly.

Early Detection Saves Lives

When oral cancer is found in its earliest stages, treatment options are broader and survival rates improve dramatically. According to national health data, the five-year survival rate for localized oral cancer is significantly higher than for cases that have spread to surrounding tissues or other parts of the body. That is why routine screening — even when you feel perfectly healthy — is so important. Many early-stage oral cancers produce no pain or obvious symptoms, and a brief screening during your regular dental visit is often the first line of defense.

At Charles F. Kattuah, DDS, Dr. Kattuah performs an oral cancer screening as a standard part of every comprehensive exam. There is no additional charge and no separate appointment required. By examining the soft tissues of your mouth at each visit, we establish a baseline and can quickly identify any changes that warrant a closer look. If we do find an area of concern, we will explain our findings clearly and guide you through the next steps, which may include a referral to a specialist for further evaluation.

Patients from Marysville, Wheatland, Yuba City, and throughout the Yuba-Sutter area depend on our practice for thorough, attentive care. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — schedule your next cleaning and exam and let routine screening work in your favor.