Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter for Children: What Every Parent Should Know
Oral cancer is often thought of as a condition that affects adults, but did you know that children can also be at risk? At Coastal Pediatric Dentistry in Bolivia, NC, we believe in early detection and prevention, which is why oral cancer screenings are an important part of our comprehensive care for kids.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, while pediatric oral cancer is rare, regular screenings are still crucial because early diagnosis can save lives.
While pediatric oral cancer is rare, it can happen. And just like any other condition, catching it early leads to better outcomes. That’s why we include oral cancer screenings as part of your child’s regular dental checkups.
“Our mission is to provide thorough care, which means looking beyond cavities and making sure your child’s overall oral health is monitored at every visit,” explains the team at Coastal Pediatric Dentistry.
What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick, minimally invasive examination of the mouth, gums, tongue, and throat to look for any unusual changes or growths. During your child’s visit, our team checks for red or white patches, sores that don’t heal, lumps, or other abnormalities that may need further evaluation.
We use gentle, child-friendly techniques to ensure your child feels safe and comfortable throughout the process. Most kids don’t even realize we’re performing the screening; it’s seamlessly built into their routine visit.
Learn more about our approach to this important service by visiting our Oral Cancer Screenings page.
Why Screenings Matter, Even for Kids
While the chances of your child developing oral cancer are low, screenings provide peace of mind. Pediatric oral cancer accounts for less than 2% of all oral cancers, but when it occurs, early detection is key to successful treatment.
Children with certain risk factors, like a weakened immune system, HPV exposure, or a family history of cancer, may be at slightly higher risk. Environmental factors, like prolonged sun exposure leading to lip damage, can also contribute to potential oral health concerns over time.
Identifying any changes early makes all the difference.
And screenings don’t just look for cancer. They can also detect other common pediatric issues such as:
- Canker sores that persist or recur
- Viral infections such as herpes simplex
- Benign growths or oral cysts
- Soft tissue injuries or abnormalities from habits like thumb-sucking or cheek-biting
Creating Lifelong Habits of Prevention
By including oral cancer screenings in your child’s dental routine, you’re teaching them the importance of proactive health care. They’ll grow up with a healthy respect for regular checkups, which sets the tone for strong dental habits throughout life.
At Coastal Pediatric Dentistry, our goal is to make every visit educational and empowering, for both children and parents. We take the time to explain what we’re doing and why, so your child understands that going to the dentist isn’t just about clean teeth, it’s about total health.
What to Expect During a Screening
During your child’s checkup, we’ll:
- Examine the soft tissues inside the mouth
- Look for sores, discolorations, or abnormal textures
- Gently check under the tongue and along the cheeks
- Evaluate the neck and jaw for lumps or swelling
We also review your child’s medical history to identify any specific risk factors or concerns. This allows us to personalize their care and stay vigilant in monitoring their oral health over time.
It’s a quick part of your child’s appointment, and we’ll discuss any findings with you immediately. If follow-up is needed, we’ll guide you through the next steps with care and clarity.
Safe. Simple. Smart.
Oral cancer screenings are just one of the many ways we go above and beyond to protect your child’s health. We combine compassionate care with modern tools and techniques to provide a safe, reassuring experience.
Our Bolivia office is specially designed for kids, so every visit feels comfortable. From the moment you walk through the door, our goal is to make both children and parents feel at ease.
To schedule your child’s next visit, request an appointment online today. If you still have questions, our Frequently Asked Questions page can help.
At Coastal Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that prevention is powerful, and it starts young. With gentle oral cancer screenings, we’re proud to help families in Bolivia, NC protect their children’s smiles, health, and futures.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
