Do Regular Dental Check-Ups Prevent Oral Cancer? The Truth You Need to Know

“I go for regular dental check-ups, so oral cancer isn’t something I need to worry about… right?”

Myth: dental check-ups cannot detect cancer.

Many people think that oral cancer can only be found when the symptoms are really bad.

Others think that when they go to the dentist it is just to check for cavities or to clean their teeth.

The truth is that dental examinations can help find oral cancer early on.

In fact some people first find out they have cancer when they are at the dentist for a routine check-up even before they have any symptoms.

If we find cancer early, it is easier to treat and the person has a better chance of getting better.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is a condition where abnormal cells grow in the mouth and form a tumour.

It can affect the tongue, the inside of the cheeks, the gums, the floor of the mouth, the roof of the mouth and the lips.

Like other types of cancer, oral cancer is easier to treat if we find it early.

Can a dentist detect cancer?

Yes, they can.

When you go to the dentist for an examination, they do not just look at your teeth.

They also check :

• the tongue
• Gums
• Cheeks
• Lips
• roof
• floor of the mouth and the tissues around them.

They look for any changes that are not normal and might need to be checked further.

Even though a dentist cannot say for sure if someone has cancer during an examination, they can find areas that look suspicious and tell the person to get more tests if needed.

What signs might a dentist notice?

Some early signs of cancer might include:

• white patches inside the mouth
• red patches inside the mouth ulcers that do not heal
• lumps or thick areas
• changes in the tissues
• bleeding that we cannot explain
• pain or discomfort that does not go away.

Many of these changes might not cause symptoms at first, which is why it is important to go to the dentist

Here are some common changes in the mouth:

• Mouth ulcer that lasts more than weeks
• White patch in the mouth
• Red patch in the mouth
• Lump inside the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent mouth pain

Who is at a risk of getting oral cancer?

Anyone can get cancer but some people are more likely to get it.

These people include:

• those who use tobacco
• smoke cigarettes or bidis
• drink alcohol
• regularly chew betel nut or pan masala
• Have had cancer before or have been around certain risk factors for a long time.

It is important for these people to go to the dentist regularly.

Why is it important to find cancer early?

Oral cancer usually starts as a change in the mouth that does not hurt.

Because it might not cause symptoms at first, many people wait a long time to see a doctor.

But if we find cancer early, the treatment might be less invasive, the person can get better faster and the outcome is usually better.

Also, the person is more likely to keep their ability to speak and swallow.

What happens if the dentist finds something?

If the dentist finds something that is not normal, it does not mean that the person has cancer.

The doctor or dentist might tell the person to:

• See a specialist
• Get tests
• Have imaging studies
• Get a biopsy

A biopsy is the only way to know for sure if the suspicious area is cancer.

When it comes to oral cancer, early diagnosis can make a significant difference.

At MGM Cancer Institute, patients are cared for by a dedicated team of specialists who work together to diagnose, treat and monitor oral cancer at every stage. Using advanced diagnostic tools and a team-based approach, we ensure that each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their condition. Our commitment extends beyond treatment. We continue to support patients through recovery and follow-up care, helping them navigate every step of their cancer journey with confidence.

 

DOCTOR DETAILS:
Dr. Manikandan Venkatasubramaniyan
Senior Consultant
Surgical Oncology