Maintaining good oral health is crucial for your overall well-being. Regular dental appointments are more than just an opportunity to get your teeth cleaned and receive oral hygiene advice. In the UK, dental check-ups play a pivotal role in early detection and prevention of serious conditions, such as oral cancer.
Dental practices, like Tower Hill Dental Practice, play a vital role in the UK’s healthcare landscape, offering accessible, comprehensive, and community-oriented services. Regular dental appointments are not just about teeth, they’re about the health and well-being of our patients.
Figures collected by the Oral Health Foundation show that 8,722 people in the UK were diagnosed with the disease last year. Mouth cancer cases in the UK have soared for the eleventh year in a row and have more than doubled within the last generation
Through oral cancer screening, patient education, and community engagement, the team at Tower Hill Dental Practice are committed to making a difference in the lives of patients and the broader community. Our mission is simple; to provide exceptional dental care, promote better health and well-being throughout our community, and ensure that our patients receive a reliable cancer screening service as part of their regular dental check-ups. We stand by our commitment to supporting our patients in accessing timely treatment for oral cancer, furthering our dedication to their health and well-being.
Oral cancer is a growing concern worldwide, including in the UK. Dentists play a pivotal role in early detection. Here’s how your dentist will carry out oral cancer screening:
Visual Examination: Dentists start by visually inspecting the oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, gums, and the inside of the cheeks. They look for any abnormal changes in colour, texture, or the presence of lumps or sores.
Physical Examination: Dentists will also gently feel the neck, throat, and jaw area to check for any unusual lumps or swelling, which could be indicative of a problem.
Use of Special Tools: In some cases, dentists may use special tools like mouth mirrors and lights to get a better view of hard-to-see areas in the mouth.
Referral: If the dentist identifies any suspicious lesions or growths, they will refer patients, as a biopsy may be recommended. This involves taking a small tissue sample to determine if cancer is present. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment.
At Tower Hill Dental Practice we recognise the importance of oral cancer screening, and it’s a routine part of dental check-ups. This has proven to be a lifesaver for patients. Early detection often leads to more effective treatment and a higher chance of survival.
Registered or non-registered patient with concerns of any oral abnormalities can access our oral cancer screening service for FREE. This is our commitment to our patients and to our community. No appointment is needed, however if possible, a call or email in advance will prevent waiting.