Oral Cancer Screenings in Los Angeles, CA

What Is an Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer screenings are quick, non-invasive evaluations that help detect early signs of cancerous or precancerous changes in the mouth, lips, tongue, throat, and jaw.

These screenings are routinely performed during your dental cleaning and exam appointment and are included at no additional cost.

Screenings include:

• A visual examination of your lips, cheeks, tongue, gums, and soft palate
  
• Tactile inspection of your neck and jaw for abnormal lumps
  
• Identification of persistent sores, lesions, or red/white patches
  
• Optional imaging or referral to a specialist if needed
  

Oral cancer screening is simple, takes only a few minutes, and can make a major difference in health outcomes.

Who Should Be Screened?

While oral cancer can affect anyone, you may be at greater risk if you:

• Use tobacco (smoking or chewing)
  
• Drink alcohol regularly
  
• Have had significant sun exposure (lip cancer risk)
  
• Have HPV (human papillomavirus)
  
• Have a family history of oral or throat cancer
  
• Are over age 40
  

We recommend oral cancer screenings for all adults, and especially for patients who receive ongoing dental care such as tooth-colored fillings, root canal therapy, or dental implants.

Why Early Detection Matters

Oral cancer often develops silently, without pain or symptoms in its early stages. But when found early, it's highly treatable.

Benefits of routine oral cancer screenings:

• Detect abnormalities before they become serious
  
• Improve treatment success and reduce the risk of complications
  
• Protect overall wellness with minimal time or discomfort
  
• Integrate naturally into routine general dentistry appointments
  

At Kigawa Family Dental, we believe preventive care should include attention to your full-body health, not just your smile.

Why Choose Kigawa Family Dental for Oral Cancer Screenings?

As a third-generation family practice in West Los Angeles, we provide more than just cleanings and cosmetic work. We take pride in offering:

• Routine oral cancer screenings at every exam
  
• A compassionate, judgment-free environment
  
• State-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic techniques
  
• Personalized care based on your health history
  
• A dedicated team led by Dr. Kayla Kigawa, who has served Mar Vista, Playa Vista, and Del Rey families with integrity and clinical excellence
  

We incorporate oral cancer screenings seamlessly into your preventive routine, just like fluoride treatments and dental sealants.

Serving Los Angeles & Surrounding Westside Communities

Our West LA practice welcomes patients from across the area, including:

• Mar Vista
  
• Venice
  
• Playa Vista
  
• Palms
  
• Del Rey
  
• Santa Monica (Ocean Park)
  
• Westchester
  
• Culver City
  
• Sawtelle
  
• El Segundo
  

Located at 12802 W. Washington Blvd., we’re conveniently accessible to residents from across Los Angeles County, offering flexible appointment times and a compassionate team.