Mouth Cancer Screening in Sevenoaks

Mouth cancer screening is an important part of a comprehensive dental examination. During a routine dental check-up, your dentist can examine the mouth, lips, tongue, gums and surrounding tissues for unusual changes that may require further assessment.

At Sevenoaks Dental & Implant Centre, our dental team can check for signs and abnormalities affecting the mouth as part of your ongoing dental care.

If anything unusual is identified, your dentist will explain what has been found and advise you about the appropriate next step. Many changes in the mouth are caused by conditions other than cancer, but persistent or unexplained abnormalities should be professionally assessed.

What Is Mouth Cancer Screening?

Mouth cancer screening is an examination of the mouth and surrounding areas for unusual changes that may need further investigation.

Depending on the examination, your dentist may look at the lips, gums, tongue, inside of the cheeks, roof of the mouth and other areas of the oral cavity. The neck may also be assessed as part of a wider head and neck examination.

The purpose of the examination is to identify abnormalities that may require monitoring, investigation or referral.

Why Is Mouth Cancer Screening Important?

Some mouth cancers and other potentially serious conditions can initially present as changes in the mouth that may be difficult to recognise yourself.

Regular dental examinations give your dentist an opportunity to assess your teeth, gums and oral tissues and identify changes that may need further attention.

Early assessment of an unusual or persistent symptom is important. If you notice a change in your mouth that does not resolve, contact your dentist or GP for advice.

What Does a Mouth Cancer Check Look For?

During an oral examination, your dentist may look for changes such as:

• Unusual ulcers or sores
• Red or white patches
• Unusual lumps or swellings
• Changes in the appearance of the tongue
• Changes affecting the lips or inside of the cheeks
• Unexplained areas of thickening
• Unusual bleeding
• Persistent changes in the mouth or surrounding tissues

These signs can have many causes and do not automatically mean that someone has mouth cancer.