Mouth Cancer Screening

Your dentist will perform a mouth cancer screening every time that you attend for your routine dental appointment. If mouth cancer is caught early there is a much greater chance of a cure.

Factors that increase you risk of oral cancer include:

• Tobacco use of any kind
• Heavy alcohol use
• Previous oral cancer diagnosis
• History of significant sun exposure, increases the risk of lip cancer

During your mouth cancer screening the dentist will examine your mouth to look for any red or white patches or mouth sores. They will also feel for any abnormal lumps or other abnormalities.

If any areas of concern are identified you will be referred to the hospital where they will be able to perform a more thorough examination, including biopsies of any abnormal areas.