Oral Cancer Screening in Goshen, IN
Oral cancer often develops silently, without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. That’s why regular screenings are a vital part of every dental exam at Goshen Smiles. Dr. Deana Fugate includes a thorough oral cancer screening as part of our commitment to proactive, whole-body health. We provide this service to patients of all ages across Goshen, Elkhart, Midway, Rieth Park, and beyond because prevention is always better than treatment.
Why Oral Cancer Screening Matters
Oral cancer affects the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and throat. It’s more common than many people realize, and early diagnosis dramatically improves treatment outcomes.
Common risk factors include:
- Tobacco or alcohol use
- HPV infection
- Age over 40
- Family history of oral cancer
- Prolonged sun exposure (lip cancer)
Even if you don’t have risk factors, screening is essential, especially during your routine cleanings and exams. Like all cancers, early detection is key.
What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?
Dr. Fugate performs a visual and physical exam of your mouth, neck, and jaw to check for signs of abnormalities or suspicious lesions. The process is quick, painless, and included with your general dental exam.
We look for:
- Red or white patches
- Sores that don’t heal
- Lumps or thickened areas
- Changes in tissue texture or color
- Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
If any area appears unusual, we may recommend further evaluation or referral for a biopsy. In many cases, these findings are harmless, but they should never be ignored.
For patients undergoing restorative treatments or long-term monitoring, we continue to perform screenings regularly as part of your ongoing care plan.
Who Should Get Screened?
Everyone. Oral cancer screenings are not just for people with high-risk lifestyles. Many cases occur in individuals with no known risk factors. That’s why our team provides screenings during all general dentistry appointments, regardless of age or background.
If you wear dentures or haven’t had an exam in several years, it’s especially important to schedule a screeningeven if you’re not currently experiencing pain or discomfort.
Comprehensive Preventive Dentistry in Goshen
At Goshen Smiles, we don’t just treat problems, we work to prevent them. Dr. Fugate’s background in advanced general dentistry, combined with her military training and commitment to patient-first care, makes our practice a trusted home for long-term oral health.
Our preventive focus includes:
- Oral cancer screenings
- Professional dental cleanings
- Sealants and fluoride treatments for kids
- Night guards for teeth grinding or clenching
- Health education in both English and Spanish
Whether you're here for a routine visit or addressing concerns like bruxism or persistent soreness, our screenings are always part of your care.
No Insurance? No Problem.
We believe that life-saving screenings should be available to everyone. As a non-insurance-based practice, Goshen Smiles offers simple, transparent pricing with CareCredit and Cherry Financing available for additional services if needed.
Patients across Goshen, Elkhart, Middlebury, and surrounding areas trust us not just for our technology and training, but for the kindness and clarity we bring to every visit.
Schedule an Oral Cancer Screening Today
Don’t wait until symptoms appear. Oral cancer screening is quick, painless, and included in your regular dental visit at Goshen Smiles.
Call 574-533-6911 to schedule your exam or contact us online. We’re located at 1213 W Lincoln Ave, Goshen, IN 46526, and proudly serve patients within a 25-mile radius.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Cancer Screening
Is oral cancer screening painful?
No. The screening is non-invasive and takes just a few minutes during your dental exam.
What are the first signs of oral cancer?
Symptoms may include persistent sores, red or white patches, lumps, pain, or difficulty swallowing. However, many early cases are symptom-free, which is why routine screenings are so important.
How often should I get screened for oral cancer?
At Goshen Smiles, we perform screenings during every routine dental exam. If you have higher risk factors, we may recommend additional monitoring.
Can oral cancer be prevented?
While not all cases can be prevented, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, protecting your lips from the sun, and receiving regular screenings can significantly lower your risk.
Do you offer oral cancer screenings for children or teens?
Yes. While rare in younger patients, we include screenings as part of every full exam to ensure nothing is missed.
Most patients benefit from visiting the dentist every six months. However, patients with certain conditions, such as gum disease, may need more frequent visits.
Proactive, Preventive Dental Care That Puts You First
Early detection saves lives. At Goshen Smiles, we take that seriously. Our oral cancer screenings are a simple but powerful way to protect your long-term health, performed with care, compassion, and attention to detail.