Mouth Cancer Screening

Mouth Cancer Screening at Manningtree Dental and Implant Centre.

At a Glance

Expected results

Early detection of mouth cancer

Treatment time

< 5 minutes

Anaesthetic

None

Longevity

Bi-annual check-ups

Overview

Mouth cancer screening is a preventative examination designed to detect early signs of oral cancer. The screening involves a thorough inspection of the mouth, lips, tongue, throat, and surrounding tissues for abnormalities or suspicious areas. Early detection of mouth cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

What Is Mouth Cancer Screening Used To Treat?

Mouth cancer screening is essential to help detect early signs of oral cancer, including cancer of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. A quick examination during your regular check-up can identify pre-cancerous conditions and lesions. Through your bi-annual visits to Manningtree Dental and Implant Centre we can monitor any changes in oral tissues that may indicate the presence of cancer. This will in turn provide peace of mind and the opportunity for early intervention.

The Treatment Process

The process for mouth cancer screening at our practice includes:

Visual Examination

The dentist will visually inspect the mouth, lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and throat for any signs of sores, lumps, or discoloured tissues. They will also check for any unusual bleeding or changes in the texture of the tissues.

Physical Examination

The dentist may feel the tissues in your mouth and throat to detect any lumps or irregularities. This helps identify areas that may not be visible during the visual examination.

Additional Tests

If any suspicious areas are found, the dentist may recommend further tests, such as a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken for laboratory analysis to determine if cancerous cells are present.

Treatment Aftercare

Mouth cancer screening is usually performed at every dental check-up, and is necessary in order to monitor oral health and detect any changes at an early stage. Our experienced dentists will also advise you to practise good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing daily. Avoiding tobacco products and limiting alcohol consumption is essential as these are major risk factors for oral cancer. Your overall health, including orally, benefits from maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Reporting any unusual symptoms, such as persistent sores, lumps, or pain, to your dentist immediately may require a check-up before your scheduled appointment.

FAQs

How often should I have a mouth cancer screening?

It is recommended to have a mouth cancer screening at least once a year, however, our dentists will usually perform a quick examination during your routine dental check-up. If you have risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, or a family history of cancer, your dentist may suggest more frequent screenings.

What are the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer?

Common signs of mouth cancer include persistent sores that do not heal, lumps or thickening of the tissues, red or white patches, unexplained bleeding, numbness, difficulty swallowing, and changes in voice. If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule a screening promptly.

Is mouth cancer screening painful?

No, mouth cancer screening is a painless and non-invasive procedure. Your experienced dentist conducts a visual and physical examination of your mouth, throat, and neck to identify any abnormalities. If further tests, such as a biopsy, are needed, the process is usually straightforward and causes minimal discomfort.

What happens if the screening finds something suspicious?

If the screening identifies any suspicious areas, the dentist may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy, to determine if cancerous cells are present. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and significantly improves the chances of successful outcomes.

Can lifestyle changes reduce my risk of mouth cancer?

Yes, making lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of mouth cancer. Avoid tobacco products, limit alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, practise good oral hygiene, and protect your lips from excessive sun exposure. Regular dental check-ups and screenings are also crucial for early detection and prevention.

Meet The Team

From our friendly front desk staff to our experienced dentists and hygienists, we’re all here to help you achieve your best smile.

Thoughts from our Patients

At Manningtree Dental, our patients are at the heart of everything we do. Hearing your experiences not only helps us grow but also inspires others to choose the best care for their smiles.