Oral Cancer Screening in Bloomington, MN
Fast, Non-Invasive Screenings During Your Routine Exam
Oral cancer can be life-threatening if not caught early — but when detected in its initial stages, treatment outcomes improve significantly. At Bloom & Smile Dental in Bloomington, MN, Dr. Elena Opare includes oral cancer screenings as part of every routine dental exam. These screenings are quick, painless, and could save your life.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
Oral cancer often develops silently, with symptoms that may be missed at home. A professional screening can identify early warning signs before they become serious.
Screenings help detect:
- Unusual sores, patches, or lesions
- Lumps or thickening in the cheeks or tongue
- Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Changes in your bite or jaw alignment
Dr. Opare performs a thorough head, neck, and oral cavity exam to look for anything abnormal — all in just a few minutes during your regular visit.
Who Should Get Screened for Oral Cancer?
Everyone benefits from oral cancer screenings — but they’re especially important for patients with higher risk factors, such as:
- Tobacco use (smoking or smokeless)
- Frequent alcohol consumption
- History of HPV (human papillomavirus)
- Excessive sun exposure (lip cancer risk)
- Age over 40
- Family history of oral cancer
If you’re unsure about your risk, Dr. Opare can review your health history and lifestyle to recommend the right screening frequency.
What to Expect During Your Screening
Oral cancer screenings are non-invasive and completed as part of your dental exam and cleaning.
Here’s what your screening includes:
- Visual Exam: We inspect the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and roof of the mouth for discoloration, sores, or abnormalities.
- Tactile Exam: Dr. Opare gently feels the jaw, neck, and lymph nodes for swelling or unusual lumps.
- Patient Discussion: We’ll ask about any changes you've noticed—like pain, sores that won’t heal, or voice changes.
The process is brief, gentle, and performed with the utmost care.
Why Choose Bloom & Smile Dental for Oral Cancer Screenings?
- Screenings included with every exam — no extra visit needed
- Detail-oriented care by Dr. Elena Opare, DDS
- Family-friendly, relaxing environment
- Education-focused: we explain what we see and what to look out for
- Convenient access for Bloomington, Richfield, and Edina residents
As part of our preventive care model, we combine screenings with nutritional counseling, fluoride treatments, and sealants to protect your oral and overall health.
Serving Bloomington, Richfield & Edina, MN
Our dental office is located off E Bloomington Fwy, making us a trusted provider for:
- Bloomington
- Richfield
- Edina
- South Minneapolis
We accept all PPO dental insurance plans, and oral cancer screenings are included in your regular dental exam — no extra cost for covered patients.
Stay Proactive with Your Health — Book a Screening Today
Oral cancer is most treatable when caught early. Our screenings are fast, thorough, and built into your routine preventive care. If it’s been more than six months since your last exam, don’t wait.
FAQs About Oral Cancer Screening
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How often should I get screened for oral cancer?
Screenings are recommended at every routine dental exam — typically every 6 months. Higher-risk patients may need more frequent checks.
Does oral cancer screening hurt?
No. The screening is completely painless and takes only a few minutes during your regular checkup.
Will my insurance cover the screening?
Yes, oral cancer screenings are included as part of your routine exam and are generally covered by PPO dental insurance plans.
Can young adults get oral cancer?
While oral cancer is more common over age 40, it can occur in younger people — especially those with HPV or who smoke or drink regularly.
What happens if something suspicious is found?
Dr. Opare will explain her findings and may recommend further testing or refer you to a specialist for a biopsy or evaluation.
Protect Your Health with a Simple, Painless Screening
At Bloom & Smile Dental, our goal is to protect not just your smile, but your overall well-being. A few minutes today could make a major difference tomorrow.