Free Oral Cancer Screenings in Orlando

In honor of Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, Orofacial and Dental Implant Surgery will offer free oral cancer screenings in Orlando on Tuesday, April 14th from 9 am to 4 pm. The screenings are part of a joint partnership with the Head & Neck Cancer Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness of oral, head and neck cancer. To participate, arrive at the clinic during the designated times and ask for a free cancer screening. Clinic location: 7352 Stonerock Circle, Suite A, Orlando, Fla. 32819.

April is widely recognized as Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, a time to increase awareness of the condition, risk factors, statistics and screenings. The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be 60,480 new cases of oral cavity or oropharyngeal (middle throat) cancer – with 13,150 deaths attributed to it – in 2026.

“Oral cancer has a survival rate of 80-90% when diagnosed early, according to the Head & Neck Cancer Foundation, which is why we recommend most patients get an annual screening,” said Austin N. Belknap, DMD, oral and maxillofacial pathologist for Orofacial and Dental Implant Surgery. “We also recommend monthly self-exams, using a bright light and mirror.”

Dr. Belknap says to look for “anything out of the ordinary” – such as lumps, swelling, bleeding, white or red patches, or sores that won’t heal – particularly those that bleed. The CDC has identified other common symptoms to look for, such as sores or pain in the mouth or throat that will not go away; swelling or unusual bleeding; or difficulty performing daily functions like breathing, speaking and chewing or swallowing food.

“Don’t wait until you’re in pain,” adds Dr. Belknap. “A lot of people don’t feel pain during the initial stages of oral cancer, so if you find anything out of the ordinary, get it checked out as soon as possible.”

The American Cancer Society reports that the average age of people diagnosed with these cancers is 64 and that one in five cases occur in people younger than 55. Some risk factors to consider include smoking and alcohol use, genetic predisposition, nutrition, mouth/face injuries, oral hygiene and certain medical conditions/diseases.

A Florida native, Dr. Belknap earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of North Florida in Jacksonville and her DMD from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Bradenton. She completed her residency program in oral and maxillofacial pathology through the University of Florida in Gainesville.

Dr. Belknap is a member of the Florida Dental Association and the American Dental Association, a diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, and a fellow of the American Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology (AAOMP).