Mouth cancer screening is a routine examination that checks your mouth, lips, tongue, cheeks, gums and other areas for signs of unusual changes. Early mouth cancer may not always cause noticeable symptoms, so regular dental examinations can play an important role in identifying potential concerns.
During your screening, your dentist will visually examine your mouth and may gently feel areas around your jaw and neck for any unusual changes. If anything concerning is identified, your dentist can explain the findings and recommend appropriate further assessment or referral.
Help identify unusual changes at an early stage.
Check the mouth, tongue, gums, cheeks, lips and surrounding areas.
Regular screening can provide reassurance about your oral health.
Any concerning findings can be referred for further investigation when necessary.
Mouth cancer screening can form part of your regular dental examination.
Mouth cancer screening is an examination of your mouth and surrounding areas to look for unusual changes that may require further investigation.
Your dentist will examine areas including your lips, tongue, gums, cheeks and the roof and floor of your mouth. They may also check your jaw and neck for unusual swelling or changes.
Possible warning signs include a mouth ulcer that does not heal, unusual lumps or swelling, red or white patches, unexplained bleeding, persistent pain or difficulty swallowing. These symptoms can have other causes, but should be checked by a dentist or doctor.
Mouth cancer screening is commonly carried out as part of routine dental examinations. Your dentist can advise you on how often you should attend based on your individual circumstances.
No. Screening is a simple examination and is generally quick and painless.