A mouth cancer examination is a routine part of your dental check-up.

It is quick and painless, usually taking only a few minutes.

The aim is to spot any early signs of mouth cancer or other oral conditions, when they are easiest to treat.

---

Why is a mouth cancer examination important?

Mouth cancer can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth and throat.

Finding changes early:

• Increases the chance of successful treatment.
• Can reduce the need for more complex treatment later on.
• Can help your recovery and give you a better quality of life.
• Helps give you peace of mind.

Your dentist checks for mouth cancer at every routine examination.

---

What happens during the examination?

Your dentist will:

• Look at your face, lips, neck and mouth for anything unusual.
• Gently feel under your jaw and along your neck to check for lumps or swelling.
• Check the area above your collarbone for any unusual swelling.
• Ask you to stick out your tongue so they can check its colour, shape and movement.
• Gently move your tongue from side to side to look at the sides and underside.
• Check the roof and floor of your mouth and the back of your throat.
• Look inside your cheeks and lips for red or white patches, sores or changes in texture.
• Feel the floor of your mouth with one hand while supporting your chin with the other, checking for any tenderness or lumps.

If you wear dentures (full or partial), you will be asked to remove them during the examination.

---

What happens if something unusual is found?

Most changes in the mouth are harmless.

If your dentist notices anything that looks unusual or needs closer inspection, they may refer you to a specialist for further tests.

This does not mean you have cancer – it simply means it needs checking properly.

---

What should I do between dental visits?

You should contact your dentist if you notice:

• A sore or ulcer that does not heal within three weeks.
• Red or white patches in your mouth.
• Lumps, swelling or persistent pain.
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking.

Regular dental check-ups and mouth cancer examinations are one of the best ways to protect your oral health.