Mouth (oral) cancer is one of the most common cancers in India. The good news is that it often starts with visible changes in the mouth, so early detection can save lives. A simple check by a dentist can find warning signs early.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
- Smokers and beedi users
- People who chew pan, gutka, tobacco or areca nut
- Heavy alcohol users
- People with sharp broken teeth or ill-fitting dentures rubbing the cheek
- People above 40 years
Early Warning Signs
- A mouth ulcer that does not heal in 2 weeks
- White patches (leukoplakia) or red patches (erythroplakia)
- A lump or thickening in the cheek, tongue or gums
- Difficulty opening the mouth or a burning sensation (possible oral submucous fibrosis)
- Unexplained bleeding or numbness in the mouth
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing or moving the tongue
- A lump in the neck
Most mouth ulcers are harmless, but any sore lasting more than two weeks must be checked.
Oral Cancer Screening at SAIDS
Screening is a quick, painless visual and touch examination of the mouth, tongue and neck. If a suspicious area is found, a biopsy is done by our Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery department, led by experienced surgeons from Government Dental College backgrounds. Patients needing further cancer care get support from MMC Hospital on the same campus, including its surgical oncology department.
How to Reduce Your Risk
- Quit tobacco in all forms
- Limit alcohol
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Get sharp teeth and loose dentures corrected
- Get a dental check-up every 6 months
Why Choose SAIDS Dental Hospital?
- Specialist departments: 9 dental specialities with experienced MDS doctors under one roof.
- Strong surgical team: Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery department, led by experienced surgeons from Government Dental College backgrounds.
- Advanced diagnostics: Dental X-ray, OPG and CBCT 3D scan on campus.
- Hospital backup: Part of the MMC Hospital campus, safe for patients with diabetes, heart disease and other medical conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is oral cancer screening painful?
No. It is a simple examination that takes a few minutes.
2. Is every white patch cancer?
No, but some white patches can turn cancerous over time. They should be checked and monitored.
3. Can oral cancer be cured?
Early-stage oral cancer has much better treatment outcomes. That is why early detection is so important.
Book Your Consultation at SAIDS Dental Hospital
If you use tobacco or have a non-healing ulcer, get screened today. Visit SAIDS Dental Hospital & Clinic, MMC Campus, Ulliyeri, Modakkallur, Kozhikode – 673323.
Call / WhatsApp: +91 75105 00043 | +91 86067 30213
OPD Timings: Monday – Saturday, 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM