Oral Cancer Screenings vs. Routine Dental Exams: What’s the Difference?

Many people think a routine dental exam is enough to protect their oral health. While dental exams are essential, they are not the same as oral cancer screenings. Skipping this important test could mean missing the chance to detect cancer early when it is most treatable.

At McDowell Dental & Aesthetics, Dr. Ashley McDowell brings advanced training and compassionate care to every patient. Dr. McDowell earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania and stays current with the latest screening technologies, including Identafi®. This dedication ensures patients receive thorough evaluations that go beyond a basic checkup. 

Why Routine Dental Exams Are Important

Routine dental exams help maintain healthy teeth and gums. During these visits, your dentist checks for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns. Cleanings also remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing can miss. These exams are key to keeping your smile healthy, but they are not designed to detect oral cancer in its earliest stages.

What Makes Oral Cancer Screenings Different

Oral cancer screenings focus specifically on identifying changes in the mouth that may indicate cancer. Using advanced technology like Identafi®, dentists can examine tissue at the cellular level. This allows them to see abnormalities that the naked eye cannot detect. Early detection can lead to treatment success rates as high as 90%.

Benefits of Oral Cancer Screenings vs. Routine Dental Exams

Patients gain unique advantages by combining dental exams with cancer screenings. Here are some key benefits:

• Early detection of cancer: Screenings catch cellular changes before they progress.
• More accurate evaluation: Identafi® technology highlights areas invisible to standard exams.
• Peace of mind: Knowing your dentist checks for both oral health and cancer concerns builds confidence.
• Better long-term outcomes: Detecting oral cancer early improves treatment options and survival rates.

Together, these benefits show why both exams and screenings are essential to maintaining oral health.

Book Your Oral Cancer Screening Today

Protecting your oral health requires more than routine exams. Schedule an oral cancer screening with Dr. Ashley McDowell at McDowell Dental & Aesthetics in Rydal, PA. Serving patients from Abington and Cheltenham, our practice uses Identafi® technology to detect cancer early. Call us today at 215.885.0555 to schedule your appointment.