The examination experience
We believe your dental visit is the first line of defense. Our screening process is non-invasive, quick, and incredibly thorough, using both visual and tactile methods to evaluate the soft tissues of your mouth and head:
- Visual Assessment: We inspect the high-risk areas — the sides of the tongue, the floor of the mouth, the lips, and the soft palate — for red or white patches, sores that won’t heal, or changes in texture.
- Tactile Palpation: We gently feel the lymph nodes in your neck and jaw, and the tissues inside your cheeks, checking for lumps, bumps, or immobile masses.
- Advanced Technology: In many cases we use specialized fluorescence technology (a distinct blue light) that highlights abnormal tissue changes before they are visible to the naked eye.
Who should be screened?
The face of oral cancer is changing. With the rise of HPV-related oral cancers, healthy young non-smokers are also at risk. This screening is essential for everyone, but particularly if you:
- Use Tobacco: Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco significantly increase risk.
- Consume Alcohol: Moderate to heavy alcohol consumption is a major cofactor.
- Have a History of HPV: The Human Papillomavirus is now the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers.
- Have Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure increases the risk of cancer on the lips (SPF lip balm helps).
- Are Age 40+: Risk generally increases with age, though we screen adults of all ages.
Why BOND for preventative cancer care?
We refuse to rush through the “boring” parts of the exam.
Holistic Vigilance
We understand that oral health mirrors systemic health, and we take the time to investigate any anomaly.
Education
We teach you how to perform self-checks at home so you know what “normal” feels like.
Zero Judgment
Whether you are a smoker or anxious about a spot you found, we provide a safe, supportive space for answers.
Seamless Referrals
If we find something suspicious, we have immediate pathways to oral surgeons and pathologists for biopsy and diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Does the screening hurt?
Not at all. It involves us looking with a mirror, using a light, and gently feeling your neck and jaw. It is completely painless and takes less than two minutes.
How often do I need this?
We perform a screening at every periodic exam (usually every 6 months). Oral tissue changes fast, so frequent checks are the key to early detection.
What if you find something?
Don’t panic. Many benign conditions (canker sores, bites, or irritation) can look suspicious. If we see something unusual, we monitor it for two weeks; if it doesn’t resolve, we refer you for a simple biopsy to be sure.
I don’t smoke. Do I really need this?
Yes. About 25% of oral cancer patients have no lifestyle risk factors. Genetics and viruses (HPV) play a significant role, so screening is necessary for every adult, regardless of habits.
In the heart of Aventura
Our office is conveniently located for patients in Aventura, Ojus, Highland Lakes, and those commuting from nearby areas like Sunny Isles Beach and Hallandale Beach.
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