Oral Cancer Screening

An oral cancer screen consists of a visual examination of the tissues within the mouth to search for any signs of cancer. This exam should be performed multiple times per year. 

What is Oral Cancer? 

Oral cancer is a disease that originates from abnormal cell growth in the mouth, the tongue, the lips or the throat. Traditionally, people over the age of 45 are at the highest risk of developing this type of cancer. If oral cancer is caught early enough, it can be treated successfully. 

In 2013, it was estimated that 3,100 new oral cancer cases were identified in Canada. During the same period, 1,090 deaths were attributed to oral cancers. The good news is that our dentists have been trained to detect the early signs of the disease. 

Oral Cancer Signs and Symptoms 

• Lumps on the tissues in the mouth 
• Changes in the texture or colour of the mouth tissues 
• Bleeding or numbness in the mouth 
• Difficulty swallowing 
• Sores in the mouth that do not heal 
• Changes in the taste or tongue sensation 
• White patches or dark red patches in your mouth, or on your tongue or lips