Oral Cancer Checks in Richmond
As part of every examination our dentists and oral health therapists will perform a oral cancer check, analysing your mouth and throat to observe any changes. This kind of systematic examination of the tissues reduces the chance that lesions will be missed.
What causes oral cancer?
Oral cancer is caused by mutating cells which proliferate and damage healthy tissue. Tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption are the two principal risk factors for developing oral cancer, and account for 75% of oral cancers. Sun, age, nutrition and genetic disposition can all play a part, and there has recently been an increased focus on the human papillomavirus in the development of oral cancers.
What are the signs of oral cancer?
- Any sores in the mouth, or on the face and neck that do not heal in 2 weeks.
- Swellings, lump or bumps on the lips, or anywhere inside the mouth.
- White, red or dark patches in the mouth.
- Repeated bleeding in the mouth not associated with periodontal disease.
- Numbness, loss of feeling or pain in any area of the mouth, face or neck.
We take a digital record of the lesion and can refer you to an Oral and Maxillofacial Specialist just down the road at Melbourne’s Epworth Hospital Richmond on Bridge Road, Richmond for further care.
