Innova Smiles logo
Book Now
General Dentistry
September 12, 2025
8 min read

Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are Essential (And What We Look For During Your Checkup)

Dr. Ambereen Fatima, DDS, FICOI, FAAIP

By Dr. Ambereen Fatima, DDS, FICOI, FAAIP

Lead Dentist at Innova Smiles Dental

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ambereen Fatima, DDS, FICOI, FAAIP • Last reviewed September 12, 2025
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Are Essential (And What We Look For During Your Checkup)

Yes. Screenings are quick, painless, and part of every routine exam. We check your lips, cheeks, tongue, floor of mouth, palate, and throat for lesions or changes that warrant closer evaluation—catching problems as early as possible.

Risk Factors

Tobacco, heavy alcohol use, HPV, prior cancer, and prolonged sun exposure to the lips increase risk.

Early Warning Signs

  • Sores that don’t heal
  • Red or white patches
  • Persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing

What We Look For During Your Checkup

A thorough visual and tactile exam, plus adjunctive tools when indicated. If a finding is suspicious, we’ll guide next steps promptly.


Due for your screening? Call (508) 481‑0110 or book now.

Take the next step for your dental health

Whether you need a routine cleaning or a complete cosmetic smile transformation, our team in Marlborough is here to help.

Questions? Call us at (508) 481-0110

Innova Smiles Dental serves patients in Marlborough, MA and nearby communities including Hudson, Westborough, Northborough, Southborough, Sudbury, Framingham, Hopkinton, and Shrewsbury.

Dr. Ambereen Fatima
DDS, FICOI

Dr. Ambereen Fatima, DDS

Implant & Cosmetic Dentist

Dr. Fatima is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) and the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics (AAIP). With a focus on minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry, she combines artistry with evidence-based medicine.

NYU College of DentistryInvisalign ProviderAACD Member

Share this article:

Related Articles

More Than Just a Smile: The Surprising Link Between Oral Health and Overall Wellness
More Than Just a Smile: The Surprising Link Between Oral Health and Overall Wellness

Your mouth is connected to your body. Learn how gum disease and inflammation relate to heart health, diabetes, and more—and how prevention protects overall wellness.

Why Do My Teeth Hurt When It’s Cold? Understanding Winter Tooth Sensitivity
Why Do My Teeth Hurt When It’s Cold? Understanding Winter Tooth Sensitivity

As New England temperatures drop, more patients feel sharp zings from cold air or drinks. Learn the causes of winter sensitivity—and how to fix it in Marlborough.

Summer Smile Survival Guide: Tips for Marlborough Families on the Go
Summer Smile Survival Guide: Tips for Marlborough Families on the Go

Practical summer advice for MetroWest families: what to pack, handling dental emergencies on vacation, and protecting teeth from sugary drinks and pool mishaps.