Oral Pathology and Oral Cancers

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, close to 5000

people in Australia are diagnosed with some form of oral or head and neck cancer each year. The outcome for many individuals with this particular kind of cancer is debilitating or even life threatening, not because diagnosis is difficult, but rather because it is diagnosed late.

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Screening

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Like all cancer screening, oral health screening is important. Your dentist will perform an assessment at your routine checkup, Between visits you can self monitor your own oral health by performing a self exam. Using a bright light and a mirror, do the following;

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1. Remove any dentures or plates from your mouth.

2. Inspect the roof of your mouth.

3. Pull your cheeks out to see the inside surface.

4. Inspect around your gums.

5. Poke out your tongue and inspect the surface. Look under it as well.

6. Feel for any lumps around your neck and jaw.

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WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?

• White patches​

• Red patches

• Sores that are failing to heal

• Ulcer type sores that do not go away 

• Sores that bleed easily

• Abnormal lumps 

• A thickening feeling in the tissues around your mouth

• Difficulty swallowing or chewing

• Lumps in the neck area

• Ongoing sore throat and loss of voice

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Should you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist or treating doctor for advice.  Early detection is the key to the best treatment possible being given.

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Dr de Looze accepts all referrals for any patient with concerns regarding potential cancers and can manage patients in both the private health system and in the public hospitals he is affiliated with.

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