Oral Cancer Screening in Metairie, LA
Early Detection Can Save Lives
Oral cancer is a serious but often overlooked health risk. At Frost Family Dental, we provide oral cancer screenings in Metairie, LA, as a routine part of your dental checkup—because early detection is key to successful treatment and better outcomes.
Screenings are quick, painless, and could be life-saving.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancer of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, floor and roof of the mouth, and the back of the throat. Like many cancers, it can spread quickly if not caught early. However, when detected in its early stages, oral cancer is often treatable.
Why Are Oral Cancer Screenings Important?
Oral cancer often develops without obvious pain or symptoms, making routine screenings especially important. Dentists are trained to detect early warning signs that may not be visible or noticeable to patients.
At Frost Family Dental, we include a visual and physical exam during your regular dental visit to screen for abnormalities and ensure your mouth is as healthy as your smile.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
While screenings are the best way to catch cancer early, be on the lookout for:
A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal
Red or white patches on the tongue, gums, or inside the cheeks
A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck
Difficulty swallowing or chewing
Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
Numbness or pain in the mouth, jaw, or lips
Unexplained bleeding or swelling
If you notice any of these signs lasting more than two weeks, contact our office right away.
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
At each comprehensive exam, Dr. Lawrence Frost will:
Visually examine your lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, roof and floor of the mouth for unusual lesions, discoloration, or swelling.
Gently feel along your jaw, neck, and under your tongue to check for lumps or abnormalities.
Ask about symptoms you may have noticed, such as changes in voice, discomfort, or persistent mouth sores.
If anything suspicious is found, we may recommend a biopsy or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
🔎 The screening takes just a few minutes—and could make all the difference.
Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?
While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors increase your risk:
Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
Heavy alcohol consumption
HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
Excessive sun exposure to the lips
Age (most common over 40)
Family history of cancer
Poor diet and weakened immune system
If you fall into any of these categories, we may recommend more frequent screenings for peace of mind.
Why Choose Frost Family Dental?
At Frost Family Dental, your health is always our top priority. We take a proactive approach to preventive care, and our comprehensive oral cancer screenings are just one way we go beyond the basics to protect your overall well-being.
Dr. Frost brings experience, attention to detail, and a compassionate touch to every screening and exam.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening in Metairie, LA
Early detection saves lives—and it starts with a simple dental visit. Call or text Frost Family Dental at 504-833-2500 to schedule your next checkup and oral cancer screening at our Metairie office, located at 525 Metairie Rd.
🦷 Protect your smile—and your health—with a screening that only takes minutes.