Thousands of people are detected with oral cancer each year in Australia. Early diagnosis of oral cancer increases the chances of curing the disease. It is projected that more than half the number of patients diagnosed with oral cancer at late stages merely survive more than five years.

Dentists are trained to detect any early signs of oral cancer during a routine examination. The disease starts as a red or white sore anywhere in the mouth. Oral cancer can affect any part of the oral cavity including gum tissue, lips, and the hard or soft palate.

Everyone is at the risk of developing oral cancer although people over the age of 40 are more vulnerable than those who are below 40. However, this can be prevented by visiting the dentist on a regular basis for a dental check-up. Screening of oral cancer is a routine part of the dental examination. The dentist checks the entire mouth for early detection of any cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions.

The dentist will examine any oral sores or spots in the mouth. Although most of these are harmless, there are some that are not. Dangerous sores and spots look just as the harmless ones, but testing by the dentist is what sets them apart.

The dentist can carry out some tests to ensure that a sore is not dangerous such as a brush test. This test helps the dentist to collect some cells from a suspicious sore in the mouth. The cells are later taken to a laboratory for further examination. If the cells are found to be precancerous, your dentist can refer you to a dental surgeon. The surgeon will help remove the cells surgically through a separation procedure.

Even before you visit the dentist, there are some certain symptoms you must be on the watch out that could indicate to be precancerous. Unexplained pain in the mouth, throat or gums is one of the symptoms. Another possible symptom is sores in the mouth, gums or any other part of the oral cavity. Also, swelling of the throat making it difficult to speak and unexplained numbness can also indicate that you might be having oral cancer.
People using tobacco products are at higher risk of oral cancer. Combining these products with alcohol greatly increases the risk. Also, excess exposure to the sun increases the risk of developing lip cancer.

Early detection of oral cancer means everything when it comes to controlling the disease. With experienced and professional dentists from Carrum Downs Dental Clinic, you can get a quick and advanced screening of oral cancer. We use the latest advanced technology during your regular dental check-up to screen any possibilities of oral cancer.
Schedule an appointment with us today!