Do I really need my mouth screened for cancer?

Dentists believe that this is an integral part of caring for your overall oral health. Oral Cancer, whilst uncommon, can be life threatening if not detected early and they take responsibilities to check this part of your health seriously.

Why hasn't my dentist done this cancer check before?

Your dentist probably has always done this. However, many dentists are now working to increase awareness of this important part of the service they offer to patients, and to raise awareness of what can be done to reduce the risk of developing oral cancer.

So I have just found a little sore in my mouth. Have I got cancer?

If your dentist finds an ulcer that doesn't look quite like the normal type, he or she may recommend that you see an expert in the field to make sure it is nothing serious. Certainly it makes good sense to have any unusual patch checked by an expert.

My friend died of cancer recently and I am terrified that I have got cancer as well. What is going to happen to me?

Just the mention of the word "cancer" is frightening to most people. If your dentist is concerned by an ulcer, he or she will refer you to a specialist. The specialist may want to do what is called a biopsy. This means that a tiny piece of the gum will be removed painlessly under local anaesthetic and examined under a microscope to find out exactly what it is.

I have just had my mouth checked and I am relieved that nothing suspicious was found. Is there anything that I can do to stop me getting mouth cancer in the future?

There is indeed. Evidence shows that there is a lot people can do to reduce the risk of getting mouth cancer. People who smoke and drink, particularly spirits, are much more likely to get mouth cancer. A healthy diet is also important - eating plenty of fresh fruit and green-yellow vegetables helps to prevent cancer.