At Hammons Family Dental, we believe that oral health extends well beyond your teeth and gums. One of the most critical—yet often overlooked—components of comprehensive dental care is the oral cancer screening. We’re proud to offer this service to patients in North Austin, Georgetown, and the surrounding areas as part of our commitment to proactive, preventive care.
Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, or throat. Early detection is crucial because the sooner oral cancer is diagnosed, the higher the chance of successful treatment. Unfortunately, many cases go undetected until they’ve reached an advanced stage, often leading to more invasive treatments, a lower quality of life, and a decreased survival rate.
Incorporating regular oral cancer screenings into your dental exam schedule is the best way to catch suspicious changes as early as possible. At Hammons Family Dental, we use advanced screening techniques and our dental team’s trained eyes to identify any red flags—such as unusual lumps, lesions, or color changes in the soft tissues.
Oral cancer screenings are essential for everyone, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition. Tobacco use—whether smoking cigarettes or using smokeless tobacco—is a primary risk factor. Heavy alcohol consumption also raises the likelihood of oral cancer, and when combined with tobacco use, the risk multiplies significantly. Other risk factors include human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, prolonged sun exposure (particularly for lip cancer), and a family history of cancer.
Regardless of your level of risk, regular screenings are recommended. Even young, healthy adults can develop oral cancer. Our goal is to ensure that residents in North Austin and Georgetown receive the highest standard of care by including this important screening in their routine dental checkups.
Cancer is a disease where timing can mean the difference between a straightforward treatment plan and a life-altering battle. When caught in its early stages, oral cancer can often be managed with less invasive treatments—improving both outcomes and quality of life. Patients who undergo regular screenings are more likely to catch these abnormalities before they progress, increasing the likelihood of successful treatment.
Early detection also reduces healthcare costs. Advanced cancers often require surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. By catching problems early, many patients can avoid these extensive and expensive procedures, alleviating both financial and emotional burdens.
An oral cancer screening at Hammons Family Dental is a quick, painless process. Usually performed during your regular exam, the screening involves visually examining your lips, cheeks, gum tissue, tongue, palate, and the floor of your mouth for any abnormalities. We also palpate your neck and jaw area to feel for lumps or swollen lymph nodes. If we notice any unusual spots or lesions, we might use additional diagnostic tools, such as specialized lights or rinses, to get a clearer view.
If a suspicious area is detected, we may recommend a biopsy or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation. Not every abnormality is cancerous, but timely investigation is vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment if necessary.
At Hammons Family Dental, we don’t treat oral cancer screenings as an isolated service. Instead, it’s part of our broader approach to whole-body health. We view the mouth as a gateway to the rest of your body; detecting cancer or precancerous changes in the oral tissues can sometimes be the first clue to other health issues. That’s why we incorporate screenings into our general exams, ensuring that every patient receives comprehensive preventive care.
We also believe in educating our patients about lifestyle choices that impact oral and systemic health. During your consultation, we can discuss dietary habits, tobacco and alcohol use, and other factors that may increase your risk of oral cancer. Our team is here to guide and support you in making informed decisions that lead to a healthier, happier life.
Our commitment to oral cancer screenings is part of our dedication to the communities of North Austin and Georgetown, Texas. We want everyone—regardless of age or background—to have access to thorough, compassionate, and proactive dental care. By offering oral cancer screenings, we hope to raise awareness of this serious condition and encourage our patients to prioritize their overall health.
If you live or work in the Georgetown or North Austin area, we invite you to consider Hammons Family Dental as your partner in oral health. Whether you’re a new patient or a long-time member of our dental family, you can trust us to keep your best interests in mind at every appointment.
Scheduling an oral cancer screening is as easy as booking a routine dental exam. We’ll handle the rest during your visit, and the process is quick and comfortable. Don’t wait for symptoms or pain; oral cancer can be painless in its early stages, making regular screenings all the more important.
Call Hammons Family Dental today or use our convenient online booking tool to schedule your appointment. Together, let’s take a proactive approach to protect your smile and your overall well-being. Early detection could save your life.
At Hammons Family Dental, we make it easy for you to enjoy optimal oral health.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.
10740 Research Blvd. Ste.125
Austin, TX 78759
(512) 795-9960
©2025 Hammons Family Dental – All Rights Reserved.
Website designed by Denali Creative a Stubenbordt Company