CarolinasDentist Blog

Can a Dentist Check for Oral Cancer?

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Your dentist not only evaluates your tooth and gum health at your biannual checkups, they also look for any abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer. A visit to the dentist could end up being a life-changing appointment! Read on to learn more about how dentists check for oral cancer and why it’s important.

Oral Cancer Screening During Your Dental Exam

The American Dental Association recommends that people go to the dentist twice a year for biannual cleanings and exams. A dentist is trained to look for signs in your oral cavity that may point to oral and oropharyngeal cancer.

During the exam, they will look at your cheeks, lips, throat, tongue, and gums to see if there are any growths or lesions. They will also ask you in-depth questions about your health history and if you’ve had noticed any changes in your oral health. For the sake of your health, please be honest and thorough when answering these questions.

Signs & Symptoms

Some of the common signs that you can watch for and that your dentist will check for at your appointment are:

  • Any unexplained bumps and lumps outside or inside your mouth
  • Difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing
  • Frequent and/or unexplained bleeding inside your mouth
  • Sensitive, painful sores outside or inside the mouth that won’t heal
  • Red or white patches inside your mouth

Routine Checkups at CarolinasDentist

Don’t put off your routine checkup any longer. Dental checkups are one of the most effective preventive measures for keeping cavities and other dental-related issues at bay. Dental disease, including oral cancer, can usually be detected early on, which allows for earlier intervention and treatment.

At CarolinasDentist, we offer exceptional comprehensive dentistry to help patients maintain a healthy smile and body. Please contact one of our many offices in North Carolina to schedule your next checkup! We have locations in Cary, Chapel Hill, Fayetteville, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, Porters Neck, Raeford, Southern Pines, Spring Lake, and Wilmington.

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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