Cancer Checks

As part of every examination our Dentists and Oral health therapist will check your mouth and observe any changes- systematic examination of the tissues reduces the chance that lesions will be missed..

Oral cancer can occur in smokers and non-smokers, but certainly if you cease smoking you are reducing your risk. Alcohol consumption can also be a risk factor.

The combination of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk- they are the 2 principle risk factors and account for 75% of oral cancers. Sun, age, nutrition and genetic disposition can all play apart and there has recently been an increased focus on the Human Papilloma Virus in the development of oral cancers. Oral cancer signs: any sores in the mouth, or on the face and neck that do not heal in two weeks. Swellings, lump or bumps on the lips, or anywhere inside the mouth.

White, red or dark patches in the mouth. Repeated bleeding in the mouth not associated with periodontal disease. Numbness, loss of feeling or pain in any area of the mouth, face or neck.

We take a digital record of the lesion and can refer you to an Oral Patology Specialist at the Epworth Hospital for further care.