◈ Homepage — https://www.dentistoaklandca.com/?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=DevOptimization&utm_content=WebsiteWE ARE FULLY HIPAA COMPLIANT ACROSS ALL ASPECTS OF OUR BUSINESS Read More   3630 MacArthur Blvd Oakland, CA 94619 Book Online Call Us! (510) 530-3317 Home About Patient Information Services Patient Education Membership Club Smile Gallery Patient Testimonials Book Online Home About Patient Information Services Patient Education Membership Club Smile Gallery Patient Testimonials Book Online Request An Appointment First & Last Name (Required) Email (Required) Phone Number (Required) How Did You Hear About Us? Existing Patient Google Discovered Online Word of Mouth Facebook or Other Social Media Other Select an Option Our Team is the Best of Oakland! Dr. Sibhatu and our team have been recognized as the Best of Oakland dentists for 2018, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. Contact Us Today Teeth Whitening Reclaim a Youthful Smile Read More about our Treatments Sedation Dentistry Easy to Find & Local Get Directions Bright Smiles Schedule an exam or cleaning today Schedule Your Appointment Now Gentle Dentistry & Personalized Care Our private dental office can give you and your family the personalized experience you deserve! Read More About Family Dentistry Aligner/Clear Braces Why Wait to Smile? Read More About Clear Aligners Welcome Laurel Smile Dentistry At Laurel Smile Dentistry, our dentists in Oakland love getting to know patients and their unique smile needs. That’s why we were named Best of Oakland in 2018, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025! We have also been named a Best Dentist in Oakland by NewMouth. We’re able to understand exactly what’s best for your smile because we listen to you carefully during your appointment. We’ll recommend treatments and educate you on the services that will strengthen and improve your smile. It’s important to us that you have strong teeth and healthy gums throughout your entire life. We are committed to providing quality healthcare to families located in the Oakland area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful. Laurel Smile Dentistry is located at 3630 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland, CA. We are currently accepting new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling 510-530-3317. Our Team Dr. Sibhatu and Dr. Ha and the team at Laurel Smile Dentistry provide quality dental care to patients in the Oakland area, focusing on a comprehensive approach to oral health. By treating and educating patients, our team helps patients to stay healthy in between visits. Our team understands the importance of listening to patients, helping them to feel comfortable and relaxed. This personal approach is evident in everything we do. From making an appointment, filling out paperwork, conducting an examination, and providing dental treatments, the team at Laurel Smile Dentistry take the time to connect with patients and give them the thoughtful attention they deserve. Our team is trained on advanced dental procedures and techniques so that patients can benefit from the latest in dental care. READ MORE Our Services Laurel Smile Dentistry provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Kid-Friendly Dentist, Teeth Whitening, Dental Crowns, Dental Fillings, Gum Disease Treatment, Implant Crowns, Dental Implants and more. Our Dentist and experienced team are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of Laurel Smile Dentistry on the road to recovery and long term oral health. READ MORE Patient Information When you walk into the office of Laurel Smile Dentistry you will be immediately greeted by our friendly team who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our team will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At Laurel Smile Dentistry we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options, like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Oakland area. Call Laurel Smile Dentistry today at 510-530-3317 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Oakland area. READ MORE Our Services Clear Aligners Read More All-on-4 Implant Read More Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges Read More Location: 3630 MacArthur Blvd Oakland, CA 94619 Hours: Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday: 8:00AM to 6:00PM 8:00AM to 6:00PM 8:00AM to 6:00PM 8:00AM to 6:00PM 8:00AM to 2:00PM Closed Closed Why Choose Us At Laurel Smile Dentistry, we provide the highest quality dental services in the greater Oakland area. Our team strives to meet all of our patient's needs at an affordable price and are passionate about building lifetime relationships with our patients. Our dentist and highly trained team are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This approach sets patients of Laurel Smile Dentistry on the road to recovery and long term oral health. We offer a wide variety of services for patients throughout the Oakland area. Our patients depend on Dr. Sibhatu and Dr. Ha to meet all of their oral healthcare needs. Whether you need dental Implants, a cosmetic dentist or emergency dentist, we can help. Services Dental Implants Cosmetic Dentist Emergency Dentist 3630 MacArthur Blvd Oakland, CA 94619 Get Directions Request an Appointment Today! (510) 530-3317 Request Appointment Comments or Suggestions? Contact Us https://www.dentistoaklandca.com About We are committed to providing quality healthcare to families located in the Oakland area and treat patients of all ages. 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Privacy Policy / Sitemap ◈ Interior Pages — 3 pages crawledDentist in Oakland, CA | Local Dentist Laurel Smile Dentistry We Are Fully HIPAA Compliant Across All Aspects of Our Business Read More   3630 MacArthur Blvd Oakland, CA 94619 Book Online Call Us!  (510) 530-3317 Home About arrow_drop_down Meet the Doctors Meet the Staff Community Involvement Office Tour Patient Information Services arrow_drop_down View all Services All-on-4 Implants Dental Checkup Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges Dental Implants Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates Dentures and Partial Dentures Emergency Dentist Full Mouth Reconstruction Kid Friendly Dentist Laser Dentistry Root Canal Treatment Sedation Dentist Smile Makeover Teeth Whitening Patient Education arrow_drop_down Blog Alternative to Braces for Teens Dental Anxiety Do I Have Sleep Apnea Do I Need a Root Canal I Think My Gums Are Receding Improve Your Smile for Senior Pictures Options For Replacing Missing Teeth Oral Cancer Screening Oral Hygiene Basics What Can I Do to Improve My Smile What Do I Do If I Damage My Dentures What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary Why Are My Gums Bleeding Will I Need a Bone Graft for Dental Implants Wisdom Teeth Extraction Membership Club Smile Gallery Patient Testimonials Contact Us Book Online Home About Meet the Doctors Meet the Staff Community Involvement Office Tour Patient Information Services View all Services All-on-4 Implants Dental Checkup Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges Dental Implants Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates Dentures and Partial Dentures Emergency Dentist Full Mouth Reconstruction Kid Friendly Dentist Laser Dentistry Root Canal Treatment Sedation Dentist Smile Makeover Teeth Whitening Patient Education Blog Alternative to Braces for Teens Dental Anxiety Do I Have Sleep Apnea Do I Need a Root Canal I Think My Gums Are Receding Improve Your Smile for Senior Pictures Options For Replacing Missing Teeth Oral Cancer Screening Oral Hygiene Basics What Can I Do to Improve My Smile What Do I Do If I Damage My Dentures What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary Why Are My Gums Bleeding Will I Need a Bone Graft for Dental Implants Wisdom Teeth Extraction Membership Club Smile Gallery Patient Testimonials Contact Us Book Online Request An Appointment First & Last Name (Required) Email (Required) Phone Number (Required) How Did You Hear About Us? Existing Patient Google Discovered Online Word of Mouth Facebook or Other Social Media Other Select an Option Our Team is the Best of Oakland! Dr. Sibhatu and our team have been recognized as the Best of Oakland dentists for 2018, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. Contact Us Today Teeth Whitening Reclaim a Youthful Smile Read More about our Treatments Sedation Dentistry Easy to Find & Local Get Directions Bright Smiles Schedule an exam or cleaning today Schedule Your Appointment Now Gentle Dentistry & Personalized Care Our private dental office can give you and your family the personalized experience you deserve! Read More About Family Dentistry Aligner/Clear Braces Why Wait to Smile? Read More About Clear Aligners (510) 530-3317 Request Appointment Our Address: 3630 MacArthur Blvd Oakland, CA 94619 Welcome Laurel Smile Dentistry At Laurel Smile Dentistry, our dentists in Oakland love getting to know patients and their unique smile needs. That’s why we were named Best of Oakland in 2018, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025! We have also been named a Best Dentist in Oakland by NewMouth . We’re able to understand exactly what’s best for your smile because we listen to you carefully during your appointment. We’ll recommend treatments and educate you on the services that will strengthen and improve your smile. It’s important to us that you have strong teeth and healthy gums throughout your entire life. We are committed to providing quality healthcare to families located in the Oakland area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful. Laurel Smile Dentistry is located at 3630 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland, CA. We are currently accepting new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling 510-530-3317 . We are committed to providing quality healthcare to families located in the Oakland area and treat patients of all ages. We provide comprehensive solutions for our patients' oral health needs. Believing in the importance of listening to our patients, we take the time to truly understand each person's needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding our patients' objectives we can provide solutions that will improve their health while transforming their smile into something bright and beautiful. Laurel Smile Dentistry is located at 3630 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland, CA. We are currently accepting new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling 510-530-3317 . Our Team Dr. Sibhatu and Dr. Ha and the team at Laurel Smile Dentistry provide quality dental care to patients in the Oakland area, focusing on a comprehensive approach to oral health. By treating and educating patients, our team helps patients to stay healthy in between visits. Our team understands the importance of listening to patients, helping them to feel comfortable and relaxed. This personal approach is evident in everything we do. From making an appointment, filling out paperwork, conducting an examination, and providing dental treatments, the team at Laurel Smile Dentistry take the time to connect with patients and give them the thoughtful attention they deserve. Our team is trained on advanced dental procedures and techniques so that patients can benefit from the latest in dental care. Read More Our Services Laurel Smile Dentistry provides a wide variety of dental services and procedures to address all of our patients' dental health needs. By combining quality patient care with up-to-date technology, we are able to treat patients of all ages in a comfortable and relaxing setting. Our website includes information on the following items: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Kid-Friendly Dentist, Teeth Whitening, Dental Crowns, Dental Fillings, Gum Disease Treatment, Implant Crowns, Dental Implants and more. Our Dentist and experienced team are trained to not only treat patients but to identify what caused the health concern in the first place. This comprehensive approach sets patients of Laurel Smile Dentistry on the road to recovery and long term oral health. Read More Patient Information When you walk into the office of Laurel Smile Dentistry you will be immediately greeted by our friendly team who are dedicated to making sure that you feel comfortable during your entire appointment. We understand that patients can feel anxious when going to the dentist, and our team will take the time to listen to all of your concerns and help you understand exactly what your procedure is going to be like. At Laurel Smile Dentistry we pride ourselves on being an affordable family dentist that accepts a variety of insurance plans and payment options, like cash and credit cards, because we want to provide a beautiful, healthy smile to everyone in the Oakland area. Call Laurel Smile Dentistry today at 510-530-3317 to see why we are the dentist of choice in the Oakland area. Read More Our Services Clear Aligners Read More All-on-4 Implant Read More Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges Read More Location: 3630 MacArthur Blvd Oakland, CA 94619 Hours: Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday: 8:00AM to 6:00PM 8:00AM to 6:00PM 8:00AM to 6:00PM 8:00AM to 6:00PM 8:00AM to 2:00PM Closed Closed Why Choose Us At Laurel Smile Dentistry, we provide the highest quality dental services in the greater Oa Laser Dentistry Oakland, CA | Laurel Smile Dentistry We Are Fully HIPAA Compliant Across All Aspects of Our Business Read More   3630 MacArthur Blvd Oakland, CA 94619 Book Online Call Us!  (510) 530-3317 Home About arrow_drop_down Meet the Doctors Meet the Staff Community Involvement Office Tour Patient Information Services arrow_drop_down View all Services All-on-4 Implants Dental Checkup Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges Dental Implants Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates Dentures and Partial Dentures Emergency Dentist Full Mouth Reconstruction Kid Friendly Dentist Laser Dentistry Root Canal Treatment Sedation Dentist Smile Makeover Teeth Whitening Patient Education arrow_drop_down Blog Alternative to Braces for Teens Dental Anxiety Do I Have Sleep Apnea Do I Need a Root Canal I Think My Gums Are Receding Improve Your Smile for Senior Pictures Options For Replacing Missing Teeth Oral Cancer Screening Oral Hygiene Basics What Can I Do to Improve My Smile What Do I Do If I Damage My Dentures What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary Why Are My Gums Bleeding Will I Need a Bone Graft for Dental Implants Wisdom Teeth Extraction Membership Club Smile Gallery Patient Testimonials Contact Us Book Online Home About Meet the Doctors Meet the Staff Community Involvement Office Tour Patient Information Services View all Services All-on-4 Implants Dental Checkup Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges Dental Implants Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates Dentures and Partial Dentures Emergency Dentist Full Mouth Reconstruction Kid Friendly Dentist Laser Dentistry Root Canal Treatment Sedation Dentist Smile Makeover Teeth Whitening Patient Education Blog Alternative to Braces for Teens Dental Anxiety Do I Have Sleep Apnea Do I Need a Root Canal I Think My Gums Are Receding Improve Your Smile for Senior Pictures Options For Replacing Missing Teeth Oral Cancer Screening Oral Hygiene Basics What Can I Do to Improve My Smile What Do I Do If I Damage My Dentures What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary Why Are My Gums Bleeding Will I Need a Bone Graft for Dental Implants Wisdom Teeth Extraction Membership Club Smile Gallery Patient Testimonials Contact Us Book Online Laser Dentistry Oakland, CA Laser dentistry is an innovative way to treat a range of dental conditions. Laser-based treatment is an emerging technology in dentistry, and it has many unique advantages compared to traditional modes of treatment. Dentists use lasers in many different ways, and they can replace dental tools that tend to provoke high anxiety. Laser dentistry is available at Laurel Smile Dentistry in Oakland and the surrounding area. Our team can provide you with the safe and quality dental treatment you deserve. Call us today at (510) 530-3317 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment. Request An Appointment First & Last Name (Required) Email (Required) Phone Number (Required) How Did You Hear About Us? Existing Patient Google Discovered Online Word of Mouth Facebook or Other Social Media Other Select an Option What is Laser Dentistry? In laser dentistry, a dentist diagnoses or treats a dental concern using a laser, which is a tool that emits light. Lasers can cut both hard and soft tissues in the mouth, and they allow for high precision. They also can reduce pain and the likelihood of an infection. Patients who may be eligible to receive a laser dental treatment include those who require the following: A biopsy Cavity removal and preparation Gum surgery Surgery on other tissues of the mouth Additionally, people with high sensitivity in their teeth or dental anxiety can benefit from receiving laser dentistry. Lasers take up less space than a traditional dental tool, which is more comfortable for patients with small or narrow mouths (especially young patients). There are two categories of laser dentistry: soft tissue laser dentistry and hard tissue laser dentistry. “Lasers can cut both hard and soft tissues in the mouth, and they allow for high precision.” Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry A soft tissue laser can help manipulate tissues in the oral cavity that are less dense than teeth. These tissues include the gums and other soft tissues. A soft tissue laser cauterizes as it works, which means that patients tend to experience less bleeding during a procedure. Other benefits of soft tissue lasers are that they can reduce the chance of infection, are highly precise, and reduce procedural swelling and pain. Specific procedures that may incorporate a soft tissue laser include gum contouring or reshaping, frenectomy (removing the frenulum), crown lengthening, biopsies, exposure of partially erupted teeth, and periodontal disease treatment. Lasers can also help seal wounds and reduce bacteria within the mouth. “Specific procedures that may incorporate a soft tissue laser include gum contouring or reshaping, frenectomy (removing the frenulum), crown lengthening, biopsies, exposure of partially erupted teeth, and periodontal disease treatment.” Hard Tissue Laser Dentistry A hard tissue laser can manipulate the hard structures of the mouth, namely the teeth. Similar to soft tissue lasers, hard tissue lasers offer high precision, minimal pain, and fast recovery time. Thus, they are ideal for patients who experience dental anxiety from the sounds and sensations created by traditional dental instruments. Compared to a soft tissue laser, a hard tissue laser can cut through more dense materials, making it well-suited for procedures involving teeth and bones. The National Journal of Maxillofacial Surgery notes that hard tissue lasers can be used for preventing cavities, bleaching teeth, preparing cavities, and eliminating tooth hypersensitivity, among many other procedures. “Compared to a soft tissue laser, a hard tissue laser can cut through more dense materials, making it well-suited for procedures involving teeth and bones.” Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Laser Dentistry in Oakland, CA Advantages and Disadvantages of Laser Dentistry When considering whether to receive laser dentistry, patients should consider the advantages and disadvantages of this treatment. A major advantage of laser dentistry is that it can be less invasive and damaging to the oral tissues. Lasers can decrease the need for stitches and anesthesia. Wounds in the mouth can heal faster since lasers can help with blood clotting and sterilization. While laser dentistry is a good option for many people, it is not for everyone. For example, teeth with certain types of fillings like metal amalgam may not be able to receive laser treatment. Pre-existing surrounding tissue or components involving the tooth or gums can also prevent people from receiving laser dentistry. Additionally, some laser procedures will still require the use of anesthesia and other drilling tools. Our team can determine whether laser dentistry is right for a patient's needs. “A major advantage of laser dentistry is that it can be less invasive and damaging to the oral tissues.” Questions Answered on This Page Q. Why would a person need laser dentistry? Q. What is soft tissue laser dentistry? Q. What is hard tissue laser dentistry? Q. What are the advantages and disadvantages of laser dentistry? People Also Ask Q. What are the benefits of getting a gum contouring procedure? Q. How can I treat gum disease? Q. What causes bleeding gums? Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer? Frequently Asked Questions Q. How new is laser technology in the field of dentistry? A. While lasers have been used in medicine since the 1970s, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) notes that the first dental-specific laser was created in 1987 and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in the 1980s. Since then, lasers have become increasingly used by dentists because of their unique benefits. Q. What exactly Oral Cancer Screening Oakland, CA | Laurel Smile Dentistry We Are Fully HIPAA Compliant Across All Aspects of Our Business Read More   3630 MacArthur Blvd Oakland, CA 94619 Book Online Call Us!  (510) 530-3317 Home About arrow_drop_down Meet the Doctors Meet the Staff Community Involvement Office Tour Patient Information Services arrow_drop_down View all Services All-on-4 Implants Dental Checkup Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges Dental Implants Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates Dentures and Partial Dentures Emergency Dentist Full Mouth Reconstruction Kid Friendly Dentist Laser Dentistry Root Canal Treatment Sedation Dentist Smile Makeover Teeth Whitening Patient Education arrow_drop_down Blog Alternative to Braces for Teens Dental Anxiety Do I Have Sleep Apnea Do I Need a Root Canal I Think My Gums Are Receding Improve Your Smile for Senior Pictures Options For Replacing Missing Teeth Oral Cancer Screening Oral Hygiene Basics What Can I Do to Improve My Smile What Do I Do If I Damage My Dentures What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary Why Are My Gums Bleeding Will I Need a Bone Graft for Dental Implants Wisdom Teeth Extraction Membership Club Smile Gallery Patient Testimonials Contact Us Book Online Home About Meet the Doctors Meet the Staff Community Involvement Office Tour Patient Information Services View all Services All-on-4 Implants Dental Checkup Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges Dental Implants Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates Dentures and Partial Dentures Emergency Dentist Full Mouth Reconstruction Kid Friendly Dentist Laser Dentistry Root Canal Treatment Sedation Dentist Smile Makeover Teeth Whitening Patient Education Blog Alternative to Braces for Teens Dental Anxiety Do I Have Sleep Apnea Do I Need a Root Canal I Think My Gums Are Receding Improve Your Smile for Senior Pictures Options For Replacing Missing Teeth Oral Cancer Screening Oral Hygiene Basics What Can I Do to Improve My Smile What Do I Do If I Damage My Dentures What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary Why Are My Gums Bleeding Will I Need a Bone Graft for Dental Implants Wisdom Teeth Extraction Membership Club Smile Gallery Patient Testimonials Contact Us Book Online Oral Cancer Screening Oakland, CA Oral cancer screenings can identify the signs of disease before it has spread. This may be beneficial to those in high-risk groups. Regular oral cancer screenings can give patients the advantage of treating cancer in the early stages when there is a higher chance for remission. Oral cancer screenings are available at Laurel Smile Dentistry in Oakland and the surrounding area. Early detection may make cancer treatment more effective. Call us at (510) 530-3317 to schedule an appointment today. Request An Appointment First & Last Name (Required) Email (Required) Phone Number (Required) How Did You Hear About Us? Existing Patient Google Discovered Online Word of Mouth Facebook or Other Social Media Other Select an Option Why Have Regular Oral Cancer Screenings? Regular oral cancer screenings can be as important as regular dental checkups. Fortunately, patients can ask to get both procedures done at the same time. As per the National Cancer Institute , oral cancer symptoms tend not to appear until the disease has spread. Early detection may make oral cancer easier to treat when the chances for remission are higher. According to WebMD , everyone should have a dental checkup at least once a year. However, experts have yet to reach a consensus on how often patients should go in for an oral cancer screening. A dentist may be able to conduct a comprehensive exam to determine how frequently a patient should have screenings. “Early detection may make oral cancer easier to treat when the chances for remission are higher.” Groups at High Risk for Oral Cancer Certain groups may benefit from regular oral cancer screenings more than others. Common risk factors include but are not limited to: A history of oral cancer Certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) Regular consumption of a lot of alcohol Excessive amounts of time spent in the sun Tobacco use, in any form Patients may find it beneficial to consult a professional about their medical history to better determine their risk for oral cancer. “Some groups may benefit from regular oral cancer screenings more than others.” Limitations of Oral Cancer Screenings Although regular oral cancer screenings are integral to maintaining good health, Mayo Clinic points out that it may be difficult to detect abnormal cells through a simple visual exam. Thus, there is always a possibility that a small sign of cancer or precancerous lesion could go undetected. A group of unusual cells does not always mean that the patient has cancer. Rather, the patient will have to undergo a biopsy to get a definitive answer. If it is cancerous, then early detection will afford the patient more treatment options. While the evidence does not yet link screenings with reduced oral cancer deaths, regular screenings may help identify cancers early at a time when remission is more likely. “While the evidence does not yet link screenings with reduced oral cancer deaths, regular screenings may help identify cancers early at a time when remission is more likely.” Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Oral Cancer Screening in Oakland, CA What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening Oral cancer screening requires no special preparation, and patients can typically expect screening to take place during a routine dental appointment. In most cases, a basic oral cancer screening will consist of the dentist taking a thorough look at all the parts of the patient's mouth, including: The back of the throat The gums The insides of the cheeks The outside and the inside of the lips The roof of the mouth The tongue Patients with dentures must remove the devices to allow Laurel Smile Dentistry to check the tissue underneath, along with the area underneath the jaw. All in all, the screening should take less than five minutes. “There is no special preparation required for an oral cancer screening, and patients can typically expect screening to take place during a routine dental appointment.” Questions Answered on This Page Q. How frequently should I get an oral cancer screening? Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer? Q. What are the limits of oral cancer screenings? Q. What can I expect during my oral cancer screening? Q. Are there any additional tests after oral cancer screenings? People Also Ask Q. What causes gum disease? Q. What causes bleeding gums? Q. Why are my gums receding? Q. What should be included in an at home oral health routine? Q. How do lifestyle choices affect dental health? Q. How does one maintain a healthy smile? Additional Tests After Oral Cancer Screenings Depending on the patient's situation, the dentist may perform special tests in addition to the basic screening. More in-depth oral cancer screenings can involve the patient rinsing their mouth with blue dye to make any unusual cells more visible. Additionally, the dentist may choose to shine a light in the patient's mouth during the exam. This light will "highlight" abnormal tissue by making it appear white. If any of these tests find signs of oral cancer or any possibly cancerous lesions, then the patient should undergo a biopsy. This procedure consists of removing a sample of cells for laboratory testing. The patient may also need to make a follow-up appointment to see if the abnormal area has grown or changed since detection. “Depending on the patient’s situation, the dentist may perform special tests in addition to the basic screening.” Frequently Asked Questions Q. Do oral cancer screenings hurt? A. There is little to no discomfort involved with oral cancer screenings. However, this may not be the case in treating advanced oral cancer.