Oral Cancer Screening for Children in Yukon, OK
While oral cancer in children is rare, early detection is key to ensuring a healthy future. At Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry, we include oral cancer screenings as part of our comprehensive approach to preventive care. These quick and painless evaluations are designed to identify any abnormalities in the mouth, throat, or soft tissues—offering parents peace of mind and children the benefit of proactive care.
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screenings involve a thorough visual and tactile examination of your child’s lips, cheeks, tongue, palate, and throat. Using bright lighting and gentle techniques, Dr. Tiana Osbourne looks for signs of anything unusual, such as:
- Persistent ulcers or lesions
- Unusual lumps or swelling
- Changes in tissue color or texture
- Sores that don’t heal
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking (in more advanced cases)
If anything out of the ordinary is found, we’ll discuss next steps and refer your child to a specialist for further evaluation if needed.
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Why Screenings Are Part of Pediatric Dental Care
Although oral cancer is uncommon in pediatric patients, we believe it’s important to monitor overall oral health, not just teeth and gums. Our commitment to total wellness means we stay vigilant, even for the rarest conditions.
Oral screenings are especially beneficial for:
- Children with a family history of oral cancer or genetic predisposition
- Patients undergoing long-term medications or immunosuppressive therapy
- Children with systemic conditions who are monitored closely during routine Children’s Dentistry visits
- Special needs patients who may have limited ability to communicate discomfort or symptoms
Incorporating these screenings into Preventative Dentistry visits ensures nothing is overlooked.
A Gentle Approach to Screening
Our oral cancer screenings are designed with children’s comfort in mind. We use age-appropriate language, explain what we’re doing in simple terms, and move at your child’s pace. No poking, prodding, or unnecessary discomfort—just a quick, thoughtful checkup you can trust.
If your child has anxiety about exams, we also offer Sedation Dentistry to help create a calm, cooperative experience.
Prevention Through Education and Awareness
We don’t just look—we also educate. During your visit, we’ll share what signs to watch for at home and how to encourage healthy oral habits that support soft tissue health. This includes:
- Avoiding tobacco exposure (even secondhand)
- Staying hydrated
- Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
- Regular hygiene and dental checkups
If your child is in treatment for a medical condition, we may also collaborate with your pediatrician or specialist to ensure coordinated care.
Serving Families Across the Region with Comprehensive Care
Families in Yukon, Mustang, El Reno, and Oklahoma City trust Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry for more than just cleanings and fillings. We take pride in offering well-rounded preventive care—including oral cancer screenings—as part of our commitment to whole-child health.
We accept SoonerCare, SoonerSelect, and Medicaid, and screenings are included as part of most routine dental exams.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Just a few minutes. It’s typically done at the beginning or end of your child’s regular dental checkup.
Yes. Because early detection is crucial, we perform screenings at each preventive visit to ensure consistency.
Not at all. Screenings are visual and tactile only, using gentle tools and gloved hands. Most kids barely notice it’s happening.
Yes. Screenings are considered part of a comprehensive dental exam and are typically covered under preventive care by both private plans and Medicaid.
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Gentle, Thorough Screenings for Lasting Peace of Mind
At Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in looking out for every aspect of your child’s oral and overall health. Our oral cancer screenings are a small but vital part of the preventive care we provide for families throughout Yukon, Mustang, El Reno, and Oklahoma City.
Schedule a Visit online today or call 405-254-7372.
Hours:
Monday & Tuesday: 8am – 5pm
Wednesday – Sunday: Closed