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Dr Jess Wong
When you think of a dental check-up, you probably imagine your dentist looking for cavities, infections and then maybe doing a scale and polish. But did you know that your routine dental visit also includes a screening for oral cancer? At Mascot Dental Clinic, we take a comprehensive approach to your oral health and that includes looking out for signs of conditions that go far beyond just teeth and gums.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in the mouth or surrounding tissues, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Like many cancers, early detection of oral cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
The challenge with oral cancer is that it often develops quietly - without obvious pain or symptoms - until it reaches an advanced stage. That’s why regular dental check-ups are one of the best lines of defense for catching oral cancer early.
Where Your Dentist Will Check During an Oral Cancer Screening
During your routine check-up at Mascot Dental Clinic, your dentist will perform a quick but thorough oral cancer screening. These are the major areas that we will look at:
- Lips and cheeks - the inside of your lips and cheeks
- Tongue - especially the sides and underside
- Floor and roof of the mouth (palate)
- Throat and tonsil area
- Gums
- Jaws and neck
What Are the Warning Signs of Oral Cancer?
While we perform a clinical check during visits, it’s also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer between appointments. If you experience any of the following symptoms that persist for more than two weeks, it’s important to get checked:
- A sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn’t heal which may or may not be painful or noticeable
- Red or white patches
- Abnormal textures
- Lumps or growths
- Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Numbness or pain in the mouth, face, or neck
- A change in how your teeth or dentures fit together
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Certain lifestyle and health factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer, including:
- Smoking and tobacco use (including chewing tobacco)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection
- Excessive sun exposure (especially for lip cancer)
- Poor diet and nutrition
- Family history of cancer
- Age (most common in people over 40)
If you have any of these risk factors, regular dental check-ups become even more crucial for early detection.
How Often Should You Be Checked?
Oral cancer screenings are included as part of your routine 6-month dental check-up at Mascot Dental Clinic. These checks are quick, non-invasive, and could potentially save your life.
If you are considered high-risk, your dentist may recommend more frequent examinations or refer you for further evaluation with a specialist if anything suspicious is found.
Conclusion
Early detection is the key to successfully treating oral cancer. That’s why every dental check-up at Mascot Dental Clinic includes a careful oral cancer screening. It only takes a few minutes but could make a world of difference.
If it’s been a while since your last check-up, or if you’ve noticed any unusual changes in your mouth or throat, don’t wait. Contact Us to book your appointment today and take a proactive step toward protecting your health.