Oral Cancer Screening
Early Detection for Your Peace of Mind
Why Early Cancer Detection Matters
As your trusted dentist in Billings, Shumway Family Dentistry includes oral cancer screenings as part of every routine visit, following American Dental Association guidelines. You don’t need to request it or worry about extra appointments. The ADA recommends adults receive oral cancer screenings at least annually, and Dr. Shumway believes preventive care means looking at the complete picture of your oral health.
Most oral cancers develop without obvious pain in the beginning, which is exactly why regular screenings matter for Billings families. Certain risk factors increase your need for vigilant screening, including tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, HPV infection, and excessive sun exposure to the lips. By the time symptoms become noticeable, the disease may have progressed. If you’re overdue for a dental visit, now’s the time to prioritize your family’s health, call (406) 248-7500 to schedule.
Quick, Comfortable Screening
The thought of cancer screenings might feel intimidating, but there’s nothing to fear about this process. Oral cancer screenings take just a few minutes and involve no discomfort whatsoever. Dr. Shumway and his team understand that dental anxiety is real, especially when the word “cancer” is involved.
You won’t need any special preparation, and there are no needles, biopsies, or uncomfortable procedures unless something suspicious is found. Most patients don’t even realize the screening is happening because it blends seamlessly into the regular exam. After your fluoride treatment and other preventive services, you’ll leave with peace of mind knowing your oral health has been thoroughly evaluated.
What Dentists Look for During a Screening
Dr. Shumway received his dental degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry and remains committed to continuing education, which means he stays current on the latest cancer detection techniques. As a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, he brings both experience and dedication to every screening.
He’ll also examine your neck and jaw for swollen lymph nodes, which can signal that something deeper is happening. The screening covers areas you can’t easily see yourself, like the back of your throat and under your tongue. This comprehensive approach ensures nothing gets missed, giving you the thorough evaluation your family deserves from a dentist who genuinely cares about long-term health outcomes.
Oral Cancer Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Between dental visits, your own awareness matters too. While screenings catch most problems early, knowing what to watch for empowers you to seek help quickly if something changes. Difficulty swallowing or chewing, persistent sore throat, or a feeling that something is caught in your throat all warrant a call to your dentist.
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait until your next scheduled appointment. Shumway Family Dentistry offers same-day emergency availability because we understand dental concerns can’t always wait. Early detection transforms outcomes, and addressing worries quickly means less stress for you and your family. Whether you need a routine screening or custom night guards & sports mouthguards for protection, we’re here for every aspect of your oral health.
Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today
If Dr. Shumway identifies any areas of concern during your oral cancer screening, he’ll explain what he’s seeing and recommend the next steps. This might include a follow-up visit to monitor the area, taking a tissue sample for biopsy, or referring you to an oral surgeon or specialist for further evaluation. Early detection means more treatment options and better outcomes, which is why we take every screening seriously.
Your family deserves a dental home that goes beyond treating problems; one that actively works to prevent them before they start. From routine exams to emergency care, we’re here for every stage of your family’s oral health journey. Take the first step toward comprehensive dental care and call (406) 248-7500 to book your appointment now.
