Cancer is a word that provokes fear in most of us and oral cancer is becoming more common in the UK. Our aim is to raise awareness of oral cancer and encourage our patients to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms. We provide oral cancer screening to ensure that cases are identified and diagnosed at a very early stage when the chances of treatment proving successful are much higher.

About oral cancer screening

Oral cancer screening enables us to identify changes in the soft tissue at a very early stage; we use advanced technology, which allows us to spot abnormalities before they become visible to the naked eye. If abnormalities are detected, we can then arrange for more tests and a diagnosis can be made at the earliest possible stage. With cancer, time is of the essence, as the disease develops and spreads; if oral cancer is diagnosed and treated early, the chances of survival are up to 90 per cent higher.

Screening is pain-free and quick; we simple use a device to look around the mouth and check the soft tissue; the test takes just a few minutes, but it could save your life.

November is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month and we are inviting everyone to come for screening. We cannot stress the benefits of screening enough and we are also on hand to discuss the causes and symptoms and talk to patients about mouth cancer.

Spotting the signs of oral cancer

The most common signs of oral cancer include mouth ulcers that take a long time to heal (see your dentist if you have had an ulcer for more than 2 weeks), red or white patches in the mouth or any lumps or abnormal swelling. Other signs may include problems with swallowing and a sore throat, which doesn’t improve after 7-14 days. It’s worth pointing out that in the vast majority of cases, these signs will not mean that you have oral cancer, but it is always best to be cautious and to get symptoms checked out by your doctor or dentist.