Oral Cancer Screening

Early Detection Saves Lives

The incidence of oral cancer is on the rise, and early detection is critical. When discovered at an early stage, the survival rate can be 80 percent or higher. Unfortunately, many people do not notice signs of oral cancer until it has progressed, and in those later stages the cure rate is significantly lower. This is why regular screening plays such an important role in maintaining long-term oral health.

What We Look For During Screening

We perform a full-mouth cancer screen at every comprehensive examination. This includes checking for lesions such as leukoplakia (abnormal white patches of cells) and erythroplakia (abnormal red patches of cells), both of which can indicate early changes. More than half of oral cancers have already spread to the lymph nodes by the time they are found, making routine dental check-ups essential for early detection and the best possible outcome.

  • Do not use tobacco of any kind including cigarettes, cigars and pipes.
  • Drink alcohol moderately
  • Follow a healthy diet with lots of fruit and vegetables

Summary

We perform a full-mouth cancer screen at every comprehensive examination.

This includes checking for lesions such as leukoplakia (abnormal white patches of cells) and erythroplakia (abnormal red patches of cells), both of which can indicate early changes.

Did You Know?

  • There are over 400 cases of mouth and head and neck cancer diagnosed every year in Ireland
  • Oral cancer incidence increases with age
  • Oral cancer is the 6th most common cancer among men and is becoming more common in women
  • Studies have shown that the death rate from oral cancer is about 4 times higher for cigarette smokers than for non-smokers