Oral Cancer Screening in Reno, NV

Most people who are diagnosed with oral cancer have no idea anything is wrong until the disease has already had time to progress. Early detection is critical: in most cases, oral cancer that is caught before it spreads is significantly more treatable than cases diagnosed at a later stage. According to the National Cancer Institute SEER data, the five-year survival rate for localized oral cavity and pharynx cancers is significantly higher compared to cases diagnosed at a distant stage.

At White Pine Family Dental, oral cancer screening is a standard part of the care we provide because we believe that taking a few minutes to look carefully gives us the opportunity to catch something serious while it is still manageable. Our team has been serving Reno families for over 30 years, and screening for oral cancer is one of the most meaningful things we do at every routine exam.

What Oral Cancer Screening Involves

An oral cancer screening is a quick, non-invasive examination performed during your routine dental visit. It typically requires no preparation and adds only a few minutes to your appointment. There is no discomfort involved for the vast majority of patients.

Our team begins by visually inspecting your lips, gums, tongue, the floor and roof of your mouth, the inside of your cheeks, and the back of your throat. We look for any areas that appear unusual, including red or white patches, asymmetry, ulcers, or areas of abnormal texture. We also feel gently along your jaw and neck to check for any lumps or enlarged lymph nodes that might warrant further attention.

If anything requires a closer look, we will discuss that with you directly and either monitor it at a follow-up appointment or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation. Finding something that needs attention does not necessarily mean cancer—many findings are entirely benign—but it does mean we are paying close attention to your health.

Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer does not affect everyone equally, and there are certain risk factors that make screening especially important to prioritize. Some of the most significant include tobacco use in any form, frequent alcohol consumption, a prior diagnosis of oral cancer or head and neck cancer, and a weakened immune system. HPV infection, particularly HPV-16, has also emerged as a significant risk factor—especially in younger patients—and is now thought to account for a growing proportion of oropharyngeal cancers.

Oral cancers are increasingly being diagnosed in younger patients and in those without traditional risk factors, which is one of the reasons we screen every adult patient at every routine exam, regardless of age or lifestyle.

Ready to get started?Same-week appointments often available across all three locations.

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Signs and Symptoms to Watch For Between Visits

Because oral cancer screenings happen once or twice a year, patients can also play a role in their own early detection. Reach out to our office if you notice any of the following persisting for more than two weeks:

A sore in the mouth or on the lip that does not heal
A white or red patch inside the mouth
A lump, thickening, or rough spot you can feel inside the mouth
A long, swallowing, or chewing difficulty, or a sense of something stuck in your throat
Persistent pain or tenderness in the mouth or in the throat, or obvious cases of bleeding or soreness causes prompt evaluation. Our team at White Pine Family Dental will always make time to take a look and connect you with the right next steps.

White Pine Family Dental · Reno, NV

Our pricing

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New patient exam

Comprehensive initial visit

$150

Teeth cleaning

Routine professional cleaning

$141

Popular

Teeth whitening

Professional in-office treatment

$300

Dental bonding

Cosmetic bonding per tooth

$264

Dental crown

Build-up available: +$419

$1,137

Dental bridge

Pontic $1,696 · Retainer/abutment $1,708

$1,696+ starting price

Dentures

Per arch

$2,738

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Prices are starting rates and may vary based on individual treatment needs. Contact our office for a personalized estimate and to discuss your insurance coverage.

Protect Your Health With White Pine Family Dental

At White Pine Family Dental, we care for the long-term health of every patient we serve. Our commitment to preventive dental care extends beyond just keeping your teeth clean—it means monitoring your overall oral health and giving you the tools to stay informed. Oral cancer screening is one component of that comprehensive care we provide, and we are committed to making sure your plan is tailored to your individual risk and health goals.

Oral cancer screening is available alongside our complete suite of dental exams and check-ups. We accept most major insurance plans and are committed to helping you understand all of your options before treatment begins. If you are ready to schedule your next exam, contact our office today. Let us take care of you.

Oral Cancer Screening in Reno, NV