Oral Cancer Screening

Our dentists at routinely screen patients for suspicious signs of oral cancer. With any form of cancer, detecting it in the early stages of its development can dramatically improve treatment success and stop the cancer from spreading. 

Oral mucosal screening is an important part of your regular dental check-up

The Australian Dental Association recommends screening for oral cancer at least once every year for all patients. In Australia, oral cancer affects 26.9 people per 100,000, making up around 2.9% of all cancers and 1.6% of all cancer-related deaths.

At every single check up with Balmoral Dental Centre, we are checking and screening all around your neck and mouth for signs of oral cancer and other diseases. Oral cancers often involve the lips or tongue and so we check these areas thoroughly for any suspicious signs and symptoms. We also check the lining of the cheeks, roof of the mouth, the floor of the mouth and the gums. It is well known that early detection of potentially malignant oral lesions and cancer allows for more effective treatment options and drastically improves the outcome for patients.

If you have any unusual lumps or lesions in your mouth that have been there for more than two weeks, or have had difficulty swallowing for this time, tell your dentist so that a more thorough examination can be done.

What do we look for?

There are various symptoms that may suggest a development of oral cancers and we like to encourage our patients be aware of any suspicious signs such as: 

• Persistent red and/or white patches
• Persistent blisters or ulcers that do not will heal
• Progressive swelling or enlargement of tissues
• Unusual bleeding in the mouth
• Firm or hard lumps
• Painful, itchy, or burning sensation in the tongue or lips

Who is most at risk of getting oral cancer?

Although not proven through studies, it is highly suggested that people who are more at risk of oral cancer may benefit from regular oral cancer screens. Factors which could increase the risk of oral cancer include:

• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Heavy tobacco use
• History of sun exposure or lip cancer
• Previous oral cancer diagnosis

Here at Balmoral Dental Center, we screen for oral cancer as part of our check up and clean appointments. Get checked and minimise your risk of oral cancer with the help of our dedicated team. Contact us today on (07) 3399 6288 or book online for your check up and clean appointment.

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