Oral cancer, also referred to as mouth cancer, can develop in the tissues of the mouth or throat, including the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and tonsils. It can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.

Regular screenings during dental check-ups are a must for early detection and successful treatment.

Lips and Mouth - Cancer can form on the lips, the inner lining of the cheeks, or on the gums.

Tongue and Throat - It may also affect the tongue, tonsils, and the back of the throat (oropharynx). Early detection here can be particularly challenging, making regular screenings vital.

Gums and Jaw - Persistent sores, swelling, and unexplained bleeding can signal potential cancerous changes in these areas.

• Smoking and chewing tobacco are among the leading causes. Even passive exposure can pose a risk.

• Regular drinking, especially in combination with tobacco use, can raise the risk.

• Certain strains of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV-16, have been linked to oropharyngeal cancers.

• Prolonged exposure to the sun without protection can increase the risk of lip cancer.

• Poor nutrition, along with other factors like stress and genetics, can also play a role.

• Sores, ulcers, or red and white patches that persist and do not heal over time.

• Lumps or thickened areas that can be felt inside the mouth or on the neck.

• A sore throat, hoarse voice, or difficulty swallowing that lasts more than two weeks.

• Bleeding, numbness, or pain that is not linked to other known causes.

During routine dental check-ups, our team performs thorough oral cancer screenings.

These are quick, painless, and involve a visual examination of your mouth, lips, and throat.

Early detection significantly increases the success rate of treatment. By including screenings as part of your regular dental visits, we aim to catch potential issues before they become serious.

• We inspect your mouth, lips, and throat for any signs of abnormal tissue, sores, or discolored patches.

• We gently feel the jaw and neck area to detect any unusual lumps or swelling.

• If we find anything concerning, we will discuss the findings with you and guide you through the next steps, which may include further testing or referrals to specialists.