What should I know about oral cancer?

Lip, oral and pharyngeal cancers grouped together are the 8 most common cancer seen worldwide. In the United States, only 57% of newly diagnosed individuals would be alive after five years.

The death rate associated with oral cancer is particularly high not because it is hard to discover or diagnose, but due to the cancer being routinely discovered late in its development.

Any person who smokes, has excessive alcohol consumption, or a family history of cancer, should be mindful of the signs and symptoms of oral cancer.

Red and white lesions in oral tissues, any sore or ulcer which does not health within 14 days are some of the early indicators of development of oral cancer. More advanced indicators would include difficulty in swallowing, difficulty in moving the jaw or tongue, numbness in the oral region, ear pain and even a lump in the neck.

In the early stages of development, oral cancer is often painless and its physical signs may not be obvious to the untrained eye. When you go for your 6 monthly dental check-up, your dentist will examine the condition of your mouth and teeth and take note of any abnormalities.

Advanced diagnostic tools like VELscope may be utilised. When abnormal tissues are detected, a biopsy may be performed.

Ask your dentist about including oral cancer screening into your 6 monthly regular dental check-up. Early discovery is pertinent for timely treatment.

Specialist Dental Group® Oral Cancer Screening Team
A/Prof Ansgar Cheng, Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics
Dr Ho Kok Sen, Dental Specialist in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Dr Neo Tee Khin, Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics
Dr Helena Lee, Dental Specialist in Periodontics
Dr Steven Soo, Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics
Dr Daylene Leong, Dental Specialist in Periodontics