General dentists prevent, evaluate, diagnose, and treat diseases of the oral cavity, as well as maintain the function and appearance of the teeth. Many oral diseases and abnormalities can indicate other diseases. A general dentist may refer patients to their physician or a specialist for further evaluation, or vice versa for treatment.
Mouth Cancer Surgery
We can potentially reduce the impact of oral cancer through screening and early detection.
What is mouth cancer screening?
Mouth cancer screening is an effective way to check for abnormalities that may require further medical investigation. Every time you come in for a routine appointment or dental treatment, your dentist will perform a brief inspection of your face, neck and mouth.
Various forms of mouth cancer affect thousands of people every day. Screening is a proven way to detect signs early and improve successful recovery rates
.What do you look for during screening?
We look for any signs such as tumours and growths that can develop in and around the mouth, on the tongue, lips and gums as well as on the face, neck and throat. Symptoms that you should not ignore include:
- A growth or lump
- An ulcer that bleeds and does not heal
- Red or white patches on the inside of the mouth
- Persistent pain when swallowing
These symptoms are not necessarily signs of mouth cancer. However, during the screening, your dentist will inform you if they detect any abnormalities that require a medical opinion as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about mouth cancer and oral health, ask your dentist for advice.
Reducing the risks of oral cancer
Healthy lifestyle choices can potentially reduce the risk of mouth cancer. These include reducing or stopping smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, taking regular exercise and eating a balanced diet. Ask your dentist for advice on reducing the risks during your oral health check.
