header-logo-e1525972935444

RITA KUTSIKOVICH, DDS. MPH Prosthodontist
29001 Cedar Road., Suite 550
Lyndhurst, Ohio 44124

Book an Appointment

About Oral Cancer

Vizilite Plus Cancer Screening

Oral cancer is a devastating and deadly cancer that can often go unnoticed until it has progressed to later stages. Twenty-five percent of all oral cancer victims have no known risk factors.1 Additionally, according to a study conducted by Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, the human papillomavirus (HPV) 16/18, a common sexually transmitted virus, is also highly associated with oral cancers located in the upper throat and back of the tongue.
As with any cancer, early detection and diagnosis is critical to survival. It is important for patients to see an oral healthcare professional regularly, particularly if they are considered high risk – those who use tobacco, abuse alcohol or have been exposed to HPV.
ViziLite® TBlue® is used to help oral healthcare professionals identify and mark abnormal lesions in the mouth. Lesions identified may include precancerous and cancerous cells that may be difficult to see during a regular visual exam.
Another service is HPV testing


At our office, we use clinical laboratory services from OralDNA LabsTM to ensure we are giving our patients the best oral health information possible. OralDNA LabsTMTM is a specialty diagnostics company designed to provide reliable, definitive and cost effective clinical tests that guide oral health professionals in detecting and prognosing disease at an earlier, more treatable stage.

Oral Cancer Exam

Life saving measures

We perform a thorough oral cancer exam during your checkups because early detection can save your life.

The signs of oral cancer

Oral cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the mouth and throat. Some of the warning signs are—

  • a red, white, or discolored patch or lump in or around your mouth.
  • a sore that bleeds easily or that does not heal within 2 weeks.
  • an area that has thickened, raised, or become hardened.
  • a rough patch of tissue.
  • difficulty chewing or swallowing.
  • a chronic sore throat or hoarseness.

Oral cancer exam

During the exam, we feel for lumps or abnormal tissue changes on your neck and inside your mouth.
We thoroughly examine the soft tissues in your mouth, especially the most frequent oral cancer sites—

  • your tongue.
  • the floor of your mouth.
  • your soft palate.
  • your lips.
  • your gums.

We may also do additional testing or use specialized equipment to identify any suspicious areas, particularly if you’re at higher risk, such as adults over 40, anyone who uses tobacco, especially those who also drink alcohol excessively, or people who have had oral contact with the human papilloma virus.

Lifestyle changes

Some lifestyle changes can minimize your chances of developing oral cancer changes including—

  • Do not smoke or use smokeless tobacco.
  • Avoid excessive use of alcohol.
  • Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables each day.

With regular exams and a healthy lifestyle,
you can better maintain your oral and overall health.
Go back to Services