Oral Cancer Screening in Encinitas – Early Detection for Lifesaving Protection
At Gregory Skeens D.D.S. – Encinitas Family Dentistry, your oral health is about more than just teeth and gums—it’s about your total wellness. That’s why we include oral cancer screenings in Encinitas as a vital part of our comprehensive dental exams. Quick, painless, and potentially lifesaving, oral cancer screenings help us detect warning signs early—when treatment is most effective.
Our goal is to keep you healthy, informed, and protected—because catching problems early can make all the difference.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
Oral cancer is a serious but often overlooked condition. It can develop in the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth, floor of the mouth, and even the throat. Like many cancers, early detection is key—oral cancer caught early has an 80–90% survival rate. Unfortunately, many cases aren’t found until they’ve progressed.
That’s why we take a proactive approach. During every routine exam, Dr. Skeens performs a visual and physical screening for signs of oral cancer, giving you peace of mind and catching concerns before they become serious.
What We Look For During an Oral Cancer Exam
An oral health screening includes a thorough inspection of the mouth and surrounding tissues. Dr. Skeens checks for:
- Red or white patches
- Unexplained sores or lumps
- Changes in texture or color of tissue
- Persistent ulcers or bleeding
- Difficulty swallowing or moving the jaw
- Swelling in the neck or lymph nodes
If we find anything suspicious, we’ll guide you through the next steps, which may include additional imaging, monitoring, or a referral to a specialist for biopsy.
Who Needs Oral Cancer Screenings?
Everyone. Oral cancer doesn’t just affect smokers or heavy drinkers. While those factors increase risk, many cases develop in patients with no known risk factors. That’s why we screen all adult patients—regardless of lifestyle or health history.
However, you may be at higher risk if you:
- Use tobacco (smoking or chewing)
- Drink alcohol heavily
- Have a family history of cancer
- Are over the age of 40
- Have HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
- Spend significant time in the sun (lip cancer risk)
If any of these apply to you, we may recommend more frequent screenings
How Often Should I Get Screened?
We include oral cancer screenings as part of your bi-annual dental exam, so most patients are screened twice a year. If you have a higher risk or we’re monitoring an area of concern, we may check more frequently.
Regular screenings help us track changes over time and spot subtle shifts that might otherwise go unnoticed.
What Happens If Something Is Found?
Finding something unusual doesn’t automatically mean cancer. In fact, many lesions or lumps are benign and can result from irritation, infection, or other non-serious causes.
If we notice something abnormal:
- We’ll document it and explain our findings.
- Depending on the area and your risk factors, we may recheck it in a few weeks.
- If needed, we’ll refer you to a trusted oral surgeon or ENT for a biopsy or advanced evaluation.
Our promise is to keep you informed and supported every step of the way—without fear or pressure.
Fast, Comfortable, and Painless Screening
An oral cancer screening takes just a few minutes and causes no pain or discomfort. You may not even notice we’re doing it! During your routine exam, Dr. Skeens will:
- Visually inspect the soft tissues of your mouth
- Gently feel around the cheeks, jaw, and neck for abnormalities
- Use gloves and a tongue depressor for better visibility
- Ask a few quick questions about any symptoms or concerns
It’s simple, non-invasive, and could save your life.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Oral cancer is often treatable when caught early—but many people don’t experience symptoms until the disease has advanced. That’s why early detection through routine screening is so important.
By combining our clinical experience with regular monitoring, we increase your chances of identifying concerns at the earliest stage—when treatment is most effective and recovery outcomes are far better.
Why Choose Gregory Skeens D.D.S. for Oral Health Screenings?
At our Encinitas dental office, we believe in total patient care. That means going beyond cleanings and fillings—we focus on your full health, well-being, and peace of mind.
Patients across Encinitas, Cardiff, Leucadia, and nearby communities trust us because:
- We prioritize prevention and early detection
- Our team is gentle, professional, and respectful
- We educate you without overwhelming you
- You’ll never feel rushed or overlooked
- We treat you like family—because to us, you are
Whether it’s your first screening or part of your regular care, you’ll always receive our full attention and honest guidance.
Be Proactive with Your Health
If it’s been a while since your last dental exam—or you’ve never had an oral cancer screening—now is the time to take charge of your health. It’s one of the simplest, most effective steps you can take toward protecting your long-term well-being.
We’ll walk you through every part of the exam, answer your questions, and give you confidence in your care.
Call Gregory Skeens D.D.S. – Encinitas Family Dentistry at 760-944-9288 to schedule your next appointment. Let’s work together to keep your smile—and your health—strong for life.
Frequently Asked Questions – Oral Cancer Screening
Is oral cancer screening really necessary?
What are the warning signs of oral cancer?
Does the screening hurt?
How often should I be screened for oral cancer?
What happens if the dentist finds something unusual?
Meet Your Encinitas Family Dentist
Gregory Skeens, D.D.S. – Dr. Skeens graduated from Loma Linda University dental school in 2001 on an academic Navy scholarship. He was the first in his class to finish all clinical requirements 6 months early and became a faculty member at the dental school, where he served for 4 years as a Navy dentist and a naval officer. After completing an advanced education in general dentistry (AEGD) residency, he deployed on the USS Peleliu in 2003, caring for 2500 marines, as well as providing humanitarian dental care to the Indigenous people of Iraq and Africa.
Dr. Skeens belongs to the American Dental Association (ADA), California Dental Association (CDA), and San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS). He also attends Patriot and IADI Study Clubs.
Our Encinitas Dental Services
Tooth Extractions
Safely remove broken, cracked, or decayed teeth, including wisdom tooth removal.
CEREC Same-Day Crowns
Designed specifically for your smile and custom made in one visit.
Veneers
Conceal cosmetic flaws, improve the appearance of your smile, and protect your tooth's surface.
Dental Bonding
Repair chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth or close gaps between teeth.
Dental Implants
The gold standard for replacing missing teeth that lasts for decades and restores your ability to chew food.
In-House Membership
Annual dental exams, bitewing x-rays, and discounts on dental services.
Visit Gregory Skeens D.D.S.
519 Encinitas Blvd (# 108)
Encinitas, CA 92024
We are located in the North Coast Business Park off Encinitas Blvd.
Patient Video Testimonials and 5-Star Google Reviews
Exceptional Patient-Focused Dental Care
During your visit, you’ll get to know Dr. Skeens—he is down-to-earth and known for his professionalism and sense of humor. As an innovative dentist in Encinitas, he always seeks continuing education courses to expand his professional knowledge and offers the latest dental advancements. He and his team make you feel right at home and offer exceptional patient-focused dental care in a comfortable and modern setting. We’ll look at your overall oral health and suggest essential treatments.
At Gregory Skeens D.D.S. – Encinitas Family Dentistry, relationships matter. Supporting growing families and strengthening the oral health of patients at every stage of life provides the ultimate reward to our team. We understand dental anxiety and pride ourselves on compassion and kindness. Our state-of-the-art technology allows us to serve everyone with first-class dental treatments for a legacy of Encinitas smiles
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Insurance / Financing / In-House Membership
Insurance
Insurance
We are in-network/contracted with the Delta Dental Premier Plan. We accept all PPO plans under ALL insurance umbrellas; however, we are considered out-of-network. As a courtesy, we will submit all claims to your insurance company and collect your estimated amount as treatment is rendered.
Financing
Financing
We’ll discuss the cost and payment options with you before we begin, and the choice for treatment is always yours. We accept major credit cards and CareCredit for extended payment options.
In-house Membership
In-house Membership
Our in-house membership program offers yearly savings and 20% off most dental services when you prepay for your hygiene visits, exams, and x-rays
Our guiding principles ensure your comprehensive dental treatments include the highest standards of care by dental professionals with ongoing training and expertise. We maintain strict infection control guidelines to protect you for uncompromising safety, patient education, and prevention. You can expect thorough dental exams that factor in your medical history, current illnesses, and current medications. The overall health of your teeth and gums is foundational to your general health. At Encinitas Family Dentistry, you can rest easy in our dental chairs, benefiting from a highly trained, highly motivated team of skilled professionals
✓ The Highest Standards of Care
✓ Uncompromising Safety
✓ Training and Expertise
✓ Education and Prevention
