What is a mouth cancer examination?
Whenever you visit the dentist for a routine examination, they will also perform a mouth cancer screening.
Mouth cancer is one of the few cancers in the UK which has seen cases rise, over the past decade there has been an increase of over 50% in the number of people being diagnosed with mouth cancer. On average 24 people a day are diagnosed with the disease. However, with early diagnosis the ten-year survival rate can be as high as 57%.
67% of mouth cancers are found in men and smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are seen as two of the main risk factors. Alongside poor diet, solar radiation, and the human papillomavirus.
Oral health checks and visual examinations are the best way to identify any suspicious areas in the mouth. Another great reason to ensure you book in for your routine dental appointment.
Mouth Cancer Screening
When you come in for your appointment the dentist will not only focus on an examination of your mouth, but they will also ask you a number of lifestyle questions. If you smoke, drink more than the recommended amount of alcohol per week, are over 50 or use chewing or smokeless tobacco these factors can increase your risk of developing mouth cancer.
The dentist will then perform a methodical examination of your mouth to detect any abnormalities. They will use a mirror to check all the tissue in your mouth including your tongue and the sides of your mouth.
If the dentist finds anything that is unusual or abnormal they will refer you to the local hospital for a specialist to perform a thorough examination of your mouth and throat. They may take a biopsy of any affected areas so the cells can be looked at closely under a microscope.
If the cells turn out to be cancerous then the consultant will be able to advise on the best course of treatment.
If mouth cancer is spotted early the chances of a complete cure are very good. However, too many people do not visit their dentist for routine appointments so often any problems are noticed too late.
Top tips to ensure that your mouth stays healthy
- Visit your dentist for regular routine dental appointments so that any problems can be identified early and treated quickly.
- When brushing your teeth look out for any red or white patches or ulcers that do not clear up within three weeks
- When out in the sun be sure to use a high factor sun cream on your face and neck and a barrier cream on your lips.
- Ensure you have a full a varied diet, rich in vitamins.
- Cut down on the amount you smoke and drink
If you are worried by a patch or ulcer that has not healed do not hesitate to book an appointment, call Valley Dental Practice today on 01255 220322. If in doubt get it checked out!
