Oral Cancer Screening in South Lake Tahoe

Early Detection, Lifesaving Results

Oral cancer is often highly treatable — when detected early. That’s why The Smile Shop offers oral cancer screenings as part of our commitment to comprehensive preventive care. Our screenings are fast, painless, and performed during your regular cleaning and exam visit.

As a health-conscious, active community, South Lake Tahoe residents understand the importance of prevention. Whether you’re a skier, cyclist, or someone who enjoys the great outdoors, keeping your body and your oral health in check is part of staying ready for life.

Our dentists use their trained eye and the latest technology to spot early warning signs — often before you notice any symptoms.

What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?

An oral cancer screening is a visual and tactile exam of your mouth, tongue, jaw, and neck to detect signs of abnormal tissue or lesions. At The Smile Shop, our process includes:

• A visual inspection of your lips, cheeks, tongue, gums, and the floor and roof of your mouth
  
• Gentle palpation of your jaw and neck to check for lumps or swelling
  
• Evaluation of risk factors such as tobacco or alcohol use
  
• Recommendations for follow-up care if anything suspicious is found
  

No needles. No pain. The screening takes just a few minutes — but could save your life.

Who Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening?

Everyone can benefit from periodic screening, but it’s especially important if you:

• Use tobacco (including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewing tobacco)
  
• Regularly consume alcohol
  
• Have a history of HPV (human papillomavirus)
  
• Have previously been diagnosed with cancer
  
• Spend a lot of time outdoors and are exposed to UV light
  
• Are over the age of 40
  

Oral cancer doesn't always come with obvious symptoms. A routine screening could detect changes before they become serious.

Why Screenings Are Part of Preventive Dental Care

Oral cancer screenings are typically included in your six-month dental exam, especially if you are in a higher risk category. They are a natural part of our preventive approach, along with fluoride treatments and sealants.

Our team believes in proactive, whole-patient care — and that starts with early detection.

Covered by Medi-Cal and Most Insurance Plans

At The Smile Shop, we want life-saving screenings to be accessible to every patient. That’s why we accept Medi-Cal and most private dental insurance plans.

Don’t have coverage? We offer in-house financing and membership options so you never have to delay essential preventive care.