Mouth Cancer Screening

Claire Hughes Dental offers mouth cancer screenings to our patients as part of their regular dental health check so they can have peace of mind.

What is a mouth cancer screening?

It is very likely that you have already undergone a mouth cancer (oral cancer) screening without ever knowing it.

An examination of your soft tissues by your dentist will look for signs of mouth cancer or anything abnormal. We will be searching for anomalies such as persistent ulcers, patches of abnormal colour, lumps and bumps, or irregular tongue patterns. In addition, we might feel around your neck and under your chin for swelling.

Why do I need an oral cancer screening?

Globally, oral cancer ranks sixth in terms of prevalence. In the UK, approximately 8300 people are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. Oral screening is an easy and effective way of checking your mouth regularly during routine check-ups and excluding anything sinister.

What preventative measures can I take?

In the oral cavity, mouth cancers occur as a result of abnormal cell division. Alcohol and smoking are two of the most common risk factors for mouth cancer. If you drink alcohol, smoke, or combine the two, your chances of getting mouth cancer increase. Additionally, diet, HPV (human papillomavirus), and age play a role.

What happens if the dentist observes something abnormal?

If possible, your dentist will show you any areas of abnormality and refer you to be reviewed or examined by a consultant. In most cases, this is to rule out any major issues, yet it doesn’t hurt to double-check.