Discuss your history.
Tell us about sores, lumps, discomfort, or changes in swallowing or speech. We will also discuss your health history and tobacco or alcohol use.
PART OF YOUR DENTAL EXAM
Oral cancer screening
in Thousand Oaks.
A closer look.
A conversation about changes.
At Lombard Dental Studio, Dr. Vadim Lebovich examines the tissues in and around your mouth for changes that may need attention. Share any symptoms, ask questions, and understand the next steps if further assessment is recommended.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A standard exam.
A clear next step.
Oral cancer can affect tissues of the mouth, including the tongue, gums, cheeks, lips, and floor of the mouth. Most oral cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. Screening looks for changes; a biopsy may be needed to establish a diagnosis.
Examine oral tissues.
The standard exam involves looking inside your mouth and feeling relevant tissues, including the jaw and neck, for unusual areas or lumps.
Review the findings.
If an area needs attention, Dr. Lebovich will explain whether follow-up, specialist assessment, or a biopsy is appropriate. Finding a change does not automatically mean cancer.
WHEN SOMETHING DOESN’T FEEL RIGHT
Notice a change?
Bring it up.
Contact a dentist or doctor if a mouth or throat change persists for more than two weeks. You can ask for advice sooner if you are concerned.
Talk with our team ↗- A sore or irritation that does not heal
- A red or white patch inside the mouth
- A lump, thickening, or rough area
- Persistent pain or unexplained numbness
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the tongue
- Persistent hoarseness or a lump in the neck
YOUR HISTORY MATTERS
Understand your
risk factors.
Tobacco use and heavy alcohol use increase the risk of cancers of the mouth. Using both increases risk further. Risk also rises with age, but younger people can be affected.
HPV is an important risk factor for cancers of the oropharynx, including the tonsils and base of the tongue. Sun exposure can contribute to lip cancer.
Discuss your history openly with your dentist. Good dental hygiene supports oral health, but it does not guarantee protection from cancer.
IF WE RECOMMEND ANOTHER LOOK
Understand the
recommendation.
Dr. Lebovich can explain what was observed and why an area needs further assessment. Depending on the findings, the next step may be a follow-up examination or a referral for diagnostic testing.
A biopsy removes a tissue sample for laboratory evaluation. It is a separate procedure, not an automatic part of every screening.
Meet Dr. Vadim Lebovich ↗
BEFORE YOUR VISIT
Your screening
questions.
Ask our team about arranging an examination, your appointment cost, and any symptoms you would like assessed.
What is an oral cancer screening?
It is a visual and hands-on examination for changes in the mouth and nearby tissues that may need further evaluation. Your dentist also asks about symptoms and relevant health history.
Does an unusual spot mean I have cancer?
No. Many mouth changes have other causes. Your dentist may recommend reassessment, a referral, or a biopsy depending on what is found. A screening alone does not diagnose cancer.
Can screening rule out oral cancer?
No examination can detect every cancer. A normal screening does not replace evaluation of a persistent symptom. Research has not established that routine screening reduces oral cancer deaths in the general population.
Does screening hurt?
The standard examination does not usually involve cutting tissue or injections. Tell us about tender areas before the exam. A biopsy, if needed, is a separate diagnostic procedure.
Do you use special lights or dyes?
This page describes the standard visual and hands-on examination. Ask our team about any additional tests being recommended and what they can and cannot tell you.
How often should I be screened?
Discuss assessment during your dental visits and a schedule appropriate to your history and risk. Contact the office about persistent changes rather than waiting for your next checkup.
Is it covered by insurance or Medicare?
Coverage depends on your benefits and the services provided. Ask our team about the visit cost, and confirm coverage with your insurer or Medicare plan before treatment.
Is screening included in the $59 new-patient offer?
Yes. The offer lists a complete dental exam, digital X-rays, and oral cancer screening for new, uninsured patients. Cleaning is not included. One offer per patient; it cannot be combined with other offers or discounted services and has no cash value.
LOMBARD DENTAL STUDIO
Make time for
your oral health.
Book a dental examination in Thousand Oaks, or call to discuss a change you have noticed before scheduling.
Visit our studio
245 Lombard St
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Monday–Friday · 10 am–5 pm
Contact & directions ↗Further reading: ADA: Oral cancer · NIDCR: Signs and diagnosis · NCI: Screening evidence
