Oral Cancer Screening
Fast, Affordable Oral Cancer Screenings Have Life-Saving Benefits
Is there an unusual sore in your mouth that just will not heal? Or gives you a burning
sensation? Do you see patches of white or red, or other troubling symptoms you can’t
explain? Has any of your sore spots been in the mouth for more than 2 weeks and is not
healing? Or do you have a sharp tooth / broken edge of the filling which is annoying and
making you feel uncomfortable?
It may be time to come in for an oral cancer screening. In fact, we recommend routine oral
cancer screenings even if you are symptom-free.
What is Oral Cancer Screening?
During an oral cancer screening, a dental expert at Amelia Street Dental Clinic will
check for any signs or symptoms that might point...
toward the disease. The sites which
need to be checked are in the soft tissues around the teeth. Viz the tongue,
cheek mucosa, soft palate, hard palate, throat and lips. A visual assessment
followed by a tactile examination is done to detect lumps or swellings.
Oral cancer screening is done as part of you routine dental examination.
Who Needs Oral Cancer Screening?
Any person can benefit from routine oral cancer screenings. But it is especially
important to get screened if any of the following are true: ...
• You are a moderate or heavy smoker or have a long term habit of chewing
tobacco.
• You are a moderate to heavy alcohol drinker.
• You have been exposed to HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)
• You are exposed to the sun for long hours.
• You are experiencing continuous burning sensation in the mouth.
• You notice a lump in the jaws or mouth.
• You have a broken or sharp tooth which is causing trauma or an ulcer to the
tongue or cheek mucosa which does not heal.
• A white or red lesion seen on the oral mucosa.
Some possible signs of oral cancer include:
• Patches that are red or white.
• Sores that don’t heal.
• A thick, crusty, or lumpy spot.
• Any erosion in your mouth.
• Pain or numbness.
• Bite changes.
• Having a hard time chewing or swallowing your food.
• Struggling to talk.
Keep in mind that oral cancer could present other signs or symptoms, or none at
all.
Why is Oral Cancer Screening Important?
The Oral health foundation in Australia says that...
“ Oral cancer is one of the world's most common cancers, with over 900 new
intraoral carcinoma cases registered in Australia each year - approximately 6.5
per cent of all cancers diagnosed in Australia. Oral cancer can affect the
tongue, lips, cheeks and soft palate of the mouth."
The Oral Cancer Foundation explains why oral cancer screening is vital:
Catching oral cancer as early as possible offers the best chance of successful
treatment. Patients often do not detect the cancer themselves during the early
stages, however, because they may feel no pain.
That is why having your dental screen for oral cancer is so important. It can
save your life.
How We Screen for Oral Cancer
During your oral cancer screening, we will:...
• Do a complete visual check for signs and symptoms.
• Perform a tactile inspection of your mouth.
• Take a look at the back of your throat.
If we find anything abnormal during your screening, you will be promptly
referred to a specialist oral medicine specialist as you may need a biopsy. If
we do not, and you remain symptom-free, you are all set until your next
scheduled screening.
How Can You Prevent Oral Cancer?
There is no way to 100% prevent oral cancer. But you can reduce your risk by:...
• Not smoking or using tobacco in any form
• Drinking alcohol only in moderation.
• Getting vaccinated against HPV
Protect Your Health Now With This Life-Saving Screening
Oral cancer isn’t something anyone likes to think about. But if you are worried
about getting oral cancer, regular screenings are one of the best things you can do
to protect your health.
Amelia Street Dental Clinic can offer you peace of mind by conducting a thorough
examination of your mouth and throat so you have the best chance of catching oral
cancer early.
To schedule your screening now, please call (number).