Protect Your Health with Oral Cancer Screenings in North Miami Beach
Your smile tells a story about your health—and sometimes, it reveals more than you may realize. Oral cancer often develops quietly, with early signs that are easy to miss without a professional exam. At Dr. Abbo Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Abbo and Dr. Gallego provide gentle, thorough oral cancer screenings for patients, helping catch concerns early.
Whether you’re visiting us from Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, or Hallandale Beach, our team makes preventive care approachable, efficient, and easy to fit into your routine. Call our friendly North Miami Beach dentist at 305-945-0909 today to schedule this vital step in yourroutine dental visits.
Oral Cancer Screenings at a Practice That Puts People First
At Dr. Abbo Advanced Dentistry, oral cancer screenings are treated as an essential part of whole-person care, not an afterthought. Dr. Abbo and Dr. Gallego approach each screening with care, attention, and clear communication.
Our local Miami dental practice serves a diverse, multilingual community, and we understand that many patients juggle busy schedules, family responsibilities, and long commutes. That’s why oral cancer screenings are seamlessly included during routine dental visits whenever possible—no extra appointments, no added stress.
Serving Our Neighbors in South Florida
While our heart is in North Miami Beach, FL, we are proud to be a health resource for the surrounding areas. We often welcome patients who are looking for a higher standard of care and a team that genuinely listens.
- Aventura: A short drive away, many families from this busy area visit us for our personalized touch.
- Sunny Isles Beach: We provide a nearby option for coastal residents who want advanced technology in a comfortable setting.
- Golden Glades: Our office is conveniently located for those seeking a dental home that prioritizes prevention and affordability.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer—often called mouth cancer—is a disease where malignant cells form in the tissues of the lips, tongue, gums, or the lining of the cheeks and throat. In the North Miami Beach, FL area, we stay vigilant because this condition can affect anyone, regardless of age. While it often begins as a small, painless growth, it can become aggressive if left unmonitored.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
One of the most difficult things about oral cancer is that it often mimics minor issues like a canker sore or a burned tongue. However, persistence is the key indicator. If you notice any of the following for more than two weeks, it is time to visit your dentist:
- Persistent Sores: Ulcers that do not heal after 14 days.
- Color Changes: White or red patches (leukoplakia or erythroplakia) on the gums or tongue.
- Unusual Lumps: Thickening of the skin or a lump felt inside the cheek or neck.
- Functional Changes: Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw.
- Sensory Issues: Numbness in the tongue or other areas of the mouth.
What Are Oral Cancer Screenings?
An oral cancer screening is a simple, non-invasive physical exam. During your regular check-up in North Miami Beach, FL, Dr. Abbo or Dr. Gallego will perform a visual inspection of your entire oral cavity, including the back of your throat. They will also gently feel (palpate) your jaw and neck for any abnormal lymph nodes or lumps.
We use advanced diagnostic technology to look beneath the surface. These tools can sometimes identify “hot spots” of abnormal cell activity before they are visible to the naked eye. The entire process takes less than five minutes but provides a lifetime of security.
What to Expect During Your Oral Cancer Screening
If you’ve never had a screening before, there’s nothing to fear. The process is entirely non-invasive and painless. When you sit in the chair at our North Miami Beach, FL office, here’s what happens:
- Visual Check: Dr. Abbo or Dr. Gallego will look at your face, neck, lips, and inside your mouth for any patches of color or unusual sores.
- Physical Exam: We gently feel the tissues under your jaw and around your neck to check for lumps or areas of tenderness.
- Modern Tools: We use advanced diagnostic lights that help highlight abnormal cells before they are visible under normal light.
- Discussion: We listen to your history and any changes you might have noticed, like a persistent sore throat or difficulty swallowing.
Who Should Receive Oral Cancer Screenings?
Oral cancer screenings are recommended for adults of all ages, even those who feel healthy and have no visible symptoms. Risk factors include:
- Tobacco use (including vaping and smokeless tobacco)
- Alcohol consumption
- HPV exposure
- Prolonged sun exposure to the lips
- Family history of cancer
Patients in North Miami Beach, FL often ask whether screenings are necessary without symptoms. The answer is yes—many early signs are painless and easy to miss without a professional exam. Call 305-945-0909 to schedule your appointment today.
The Importance of Early Oral Cancer Detection
Oral cancer often develops quietly, showing subtle signs that can be easy to miss. Detecting it early gives patients the best chance for simpler treatment, faster recovery, and long-term health. These screenings are quick, painless, and an essential step in protecting your smile and overall wellness.
Here’s why early oral cancer detection is so important:
- Better treatment outcomes
- Reduced treatment costs
- Minimal disruption to daily life
- Spotting subtle warning signs
- Peace of mind
- Monitoring risk factors
- Encouraging proactive habits
Oral Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment
If we find something unusual during your screening, we don’t leave you to wonder. Dr. Abbo and Dr. Gallego will guide you through the next steps, which may include a simple brush biopsy or a referral to a specialist for further testing.
Modern treatment has come a long way. In 2026, options range from precise surgical removal to targeted radiation and immunotherapy. Our dentists work together to ensure that if you do require treatment, your smile’s function and beauty are preserved throughout your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not at all. The exam is completely non-invasive. Dr. Abbo or Dr. Gallego will gently move your tongue and feel the tissues of your neck and jaw. It is a quick process that causes no discomfort.
We recommend a screening at least once a year. If you have higher risk factors, such as a history of tobacco use or heavy alcohol consumption, we may suggest more frequent checks during your bi-annual cleanings in North Miami Beach, FL.
If we find an area of concern, we will discuss it with you immediately in a calm, supportive way. We may suggest a follow-up in a few weeks or a simple biopsy to get a definitive answer. Most spots we find are not cancerous, but we always prioritize safety.
Usually, no! We include an oral cancer check as a standard part of our comprehensive exams. However, if you have noticed a specific sore or lump, we encourage you to call 305-945-0909 for an immediate evaluation.
Oral cancer can develop in various areas within the oral cavity. The most common location, however, is the tongue. Other areas where oral cancer frequently appears include the floor of the mouth, the lips, the gums, and the back of the throat. Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, so comprehensive screenings that cover the entire oral cavity are essential for accurate detection and diagnosis.