DENTEGO • PREVENTIVE ORAL CARE
Oral Cancer
Screening
A careful examination of the mouth and surrounding oral tissues to identify unusual or suspicious changes that may require further evaluation.
ORAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT
What Is Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is an examination of the mouth and surrounding tissues for unusual changes or areas that may require further investigation.
During the examination, the dentist assesses areas such as the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, floor of the mouth, palate and other visible oral tissues.
Screening itself does not diagnose cancer. If a suspicious area is identified, further assessment or referral may be recommended.
WHAT WE EXAMINE
Areas Checked During an Oral Screening
Lips
The lips are examined for persistent sores, colour changes or other unusual findings.
Cheeks
The inner lining of the cheeks is inspected for abnormal patches, ulcers or tissue changes.
Tongue
The surface and sides of the tongue are examined carefully for unusual changes.
Floor of the Mouth
The tissues beneath the tongue are checked as part of the examination.
Gums & Palate
The gums and roof of the mouth are inspected for changes in colour, texture or appearance.
Head & Neck
Where appropriate, the dentist may also examine or feel areas around the jaw and neck.
DON'T IGNORE PERSISTENT CHANGES
Oral Changes That Should Be Evaluated
Many changes inside the mouth are not cancerous. However, persistent or unexplained changes should be professionally evaluated.
A mouth ulcer or sore that does not heal
Persistent red or white patches
An unexplained lump or thickened area
Unexplained bleeding or persistent discomfort
Persistent difficulty with chewing or swallowing
Any unusual oral change that persists
THE SCREENING PROCESS
What Happens During Oral Cancer Screening?
Health History
Relevant medical and dental history may be discussed before the examination.
Visual Examination
The dentist carefully inspects the visible tissues of the mouth for unusual changes.
Tissue Assessment
Selected areas may be gently examined by touch to identify unusual lumps, thickening or other changes.
Findings & Advice
The findings are discussed and appropriate follow-up may be advised when necessary.
FURTHER EVALUATION
What If a Suspicious Area Is Found?
Finding an unusual area during screening does not automatically mean that it is cancer.
Depending on its appearance and clinical history, the dentist may recommend monitoring the area, reviewing it after a suitable interval or referring the patient for specialist assessment.
Where indicated, additional investigations or a biopsy may be required to establish a diagnosis.
Screening Is Not a Diagnosis
A screening examination helps identify areas that may need further evaluation. A definitive diagnosis may require additional investigations.
PREVENTIVE DENTAL CARE
Why Regular Oral Examination Matters
Examine Oral Tissues
Regular dental examinations provide an opportunity to inspect areas of the mouth that patients may not easily see themselves.
Identify Changes
New or persistent changes can be documented and assessed when they are noticed.
Arrange Follow-Up
Areas requiring observation can be reviewed or referred for further assessment when clinically appropriate.
Support Oral Health
Oral tissue examination forms part of a broader approach to maintaining oral health.
ORAL HEALTH AWARENESS
Don't Ignore a Persistent Change in Your Mouth
If you notice an unexplained sore, patch, lump or other change in your mouth that persists, arrange a professional dental evaluation rather than waiting for your next routine visit.
EXAMINE • IDENTIFY • EVALUATE
Make Oral Screening Part of Your Dental Care
A professional oral examination can help identify unusual changes and determine whether further evaluation is necessary.
📞 Book Your Screening