Mouth Cancer Screening

One important part of a dental check-up that many people don't know about is mouth cancer screening. Mouth cancer can occur in any part of the mouth, including the tongue, throat and lips. Like any form of cancer, early detection is vital to successful treatment.

Mouth cancers have a higher proportion of deaths per number of cases than breast cancer, cervical cancer or skin melanoma, which are more widely known about. The mortality rate is 50% despite treatment, mainly because of late detection. However, if the condition is spotted early than there is a good chance of making a full recovery. Regular check-ups with your dentist are essential to spotting the early symptoms of mouth cancer.

Alex and Alina carry out mouth cancer screening as part of every standard dental check-up. With the aid of a small mirror, they will thoroughly check your cheeks, lips and mouth for any signs of cancer and will immediately refer you to a hospital consultant for further investigation if anything suspicious is found.

What are the symptoms of mouth cancer?

As well as screening you for mouth cancer at the practice, Alex and Alina can also advise you on how to check for early symptoms at home. Symptoms to watch out for include:

• Mouth ulcers (often painless) that don't heal after three weeks
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Lumps in the jaw or neck
• Persistent hoarseness/sore throat

If you notice any of these symptoms, or anything else unusual, you should book an appointment with your doctor straight away. Remember, early detection vastly increases your chances of making a full recovery.