Simple, painless, and potentially life-saving why this 5-minute step matters in Sherwood Park
When most people think of a dental checkup, they imagine cleanings, X-rays, or cavity checks — not cancer screenings. But your dentist plays a key role in spotting serious issues early, and that includes signs of oral cancer.
At Granada Dental, we include oral cancer screening as part of your routine dental care. It’s quick, non-invasive, and could make a life-saving difference — especially when it comes to early detection.
If you’ve never had one or aren’t sure what it involves, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is a simple visual and physical exam that helps identify abnormal tissue in your mouth, lips, throat, and jaw area. These exams are designed to catch early signs of cancer or precancerous changes — often before you feel any symptoms.
At Granada Dental, we perform this screening at every standard checkup, typically every 6 months. It takes just a few minutes, causes no discomfort, and is built into the routine care you’re already receiving.
What Happens During a Screening?
Many patients are surprised to learn they’ve already had this done without realizing it. That’s because it’s non-invasive and discreet. Here’s what your dentist checks:
The roof and floor of your mouth
Your tongue, including the sides and underneath
Your cheeks, gums, lips, and throat
Your neck and jaw, checking for lumps or swelling
We look for:
White or red patches
Sores that don’t heal
Lumps or rough areas
Unusual bleeding or tenderness
Changes in your bite or speaking
If we notice anything unusual, we may recommend additional imaging, a follow-up visit, or a biopsy often in collaboration with your family doctor or a specialist.
Why Early Detection Matters
Oral cancer can be aggressive — but it’s also highly treatable when caught early. According to Canadian health data:
Early-stage oral cancer has a 5-year survival rate of 84%
Late-stage oral cancer survival drops to 39–65%, depending on location and spread
Unfortunately, many cases aren’t diagnosed until they’ve progressed, often because patients don’t recognize the warning signs or don’t get regular screenings.
This is why routine dental visits are so important. We’re not just checking your teeth — we’re monitoring your whole mouth for issues you might not see or feel yet.
Who’s at Risk for Oral Cancer?
While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors increase your risk:
Age 40+
Smoking or tobacco use (including vaping and smokeless products)
Heavy alcohol consumption
HPV (human papillomavirus) exposure
Previous cancer diagnoses
Extended sun exposure (for lip cancer)
If you fall into any of these categories, regular screenings become even more important. We can help you build a personalized checkup schedule that keeps your risk in check.
How Often Should You Be Screened?
We recommend oral cancer screening at every checkup, typically every 6 months, especially if you’re over 40 or have risk factors.
Even for lower-risk patients, annual screening is a smart preventive step — just like skin checks or cholesterol testing. It’s painless, takes just a few minutes, and fits naturally into your routine cleaning and exam.
At Granada Dental, we track your screening history and revisit key areas each time you visit, so we can spot any changes early.
Common Misconceptions
“I don’t feel anything wrong so why check?”
Most early-stage oral cancers are painless and symptom-free. That’s what makes screening so important. By the time you feel discomfort, the disease may be more advanced.
“Only smokers get oral cancer.”
While smoking is a major risk factor, more cases are now linked to HPV, a common virus that can affect the mouth and throat. Non-smokers are absolutely at risk — especially those over 40.
“If something was wrong, my dentist would tell me.”
They will — but only if you come in. Consistent visits are what allow us to monitor small changes over time and act early if needed.
What If Something Is Found?
If we detect anything unusual, we’ll explain what we see, what it could mean, and what steps to take next.
That may include:
Watching the area and rechecking in 2–3 weeks
Imaging (like digital X-rays or intraoral cameras)Referral for biopsy or a second opinion from a specialist
We’ll coordinate care, share records as needed, and stay in touch to support you every step of the way. You’ll never be left wondering or alone in the process.
The Granada Dental Approach to Preventive Care
We believe dentistry is about whole health, not just fixing teeth. Our preventive care model includes:
Routine oral cancer screenings at every checkup
Advanced technology for early detection
Detailed documentation and follow-up when anything changes
A caring team that makes time to answer your questions and explain everything clearly
We don’t rush appointments. We listen. And we make your comfort a priority at every visit.
Why Choose Granada Dental in Sherwood Park?
We’ve served Sherwood Park for over 30 years with family-friendly, prevention-focused care. Our patients trust us because:
Screenings are included in your checkup — no extra cost
We use digital imaging and soft-tissue lasers for accurate, gentle diagnostics
We offer direct insurance billing and flexible appointment times
We’re local, experienced, and community-rooted
Whether it’s your first screening or your fifteenth, you’ll feel safe and supported from the moment you walk in.
Your Next Checkup Could Do More Than Clean Your Teeth
You take care of your body, your diet, and your overall wellness. Don’t overlook one of the most accessible and effective tools for cancer prevention: your regular dental checkup.
If it’s been a while — or if you’ve never had an oral cancer screening — now is the time.
Book Your Screening with Granada Dental Today
We make it simple to stay healthy. No extra visits, no added cost — just smart, complete dental care with a wellness-first mindset.
Call (780) 464-6266 or book online and ask about your oral cancer screening. We’ll take care of the rest.
Add an Oral Cancer Screening to Your Next Checkup
Prevention starts with one small step. At Granada Dental, we include oral cancer screenings in every dental exam — quick, painless, and part of your routine care. Stay ahead of serious health risks and feel confident you’re doing everything you can for your wellness.
Granada Dental NAP Info
Name: Granada Dental
Address: 201-101 Granada Blvd, Sherwood Park, AB T8A 4W2
Phone: (780) 464-6266
Email: granadadental@shaw.ca
