Tag: Oral cancer

Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings at Dublin18 Dental Care for People near Goatstown

Oral cancer is becoming increasingly common and oral cancer screenings are really important for ensuring cases are diagnosed at an early stage when cancer is more treatable. Unfortunately, research shows that most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, as many people are unaware of the symptoms and causes and neglect regular check-ups. This means that survival rates have remained at the same level for the last 5 years. Here at Dublin18 Dental Care near Goatstown we are committed to the fight against oral cancer, actively encouraging all of our patients to attend regular check-ups and oral cancer screenings.

About oral cancer

This is a form of cancer that affects the mouth, tongue or throat. Research shows that this form of cancer has become much more common over the last ten years, with the number of cases almost doubling.

Risk factors include smoking, drinking alcohol, a poor diet and exposure to the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted infection.

Symptoms of oral cancer include red or white patches in the mouth, abnormal lumps or swelling in the mouth or throat, and ulcers that take a long time (more than 2 weeks) to heal. It is extremely important to see your dentist or doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of survival by up to 90 per cent.

What does an oral cancer screening involve?

The screening process is vital for improving survival rates and only takes a few minutes. The actually screening test is similar to a quick check-up. There is absolutely no pain involved and your dentist will simply check for relevant symptoms and changes in your mouth. If your dentist suspects that there may be warning signs they will refer you for further tests.

Screening is vital because it detects cases of cancer at an early stage. If the condition is diagnosed at an early stage this will mean that patients can receive treatment when is more likely to be effective.

If you have any questions about oral cancer or if simply want to find out more about oral cancer screenings, do not hesitate to give us a call.

 

 

 

 

Patients from Deansgrange learn about mouth cancer at Dublin18 Dental Care

Mouth cancer in the Ireland is an increasingly widespread problem, yet the majority of people are uninformed about its causes and symptoms. In recent years the government has teamed up with dental organisations and dental practices across the country, in order to try and raise awareness of mouth cancer and increase survival rates.

What causes mouth cancer?

Mouth cancer is most commonly associated with drinking alcohol and smoking. These are behaviours that can be easily stopped and doing so can make a big difference. Poor dental health is also a negative behaviour and can lead to several dental and general health problems.

Symptoms

Dr Goggins diagnosed 2 cases of oral cancer in the last two years. Early diagnosis is important and people must be aware of the relevant symptoms. Symptoms of mouth cancer include sores that take a prolonged amount of time to repair, red or white patches in the orifice and irregular bulges or swellings in the throat or mouth. If you experience any of these symptoms, feel free to call us for an appointment to have this problem checked or GP as soon as possible. Even if you are not sure it is best to err on the side of caution, as early diagnosis can save lives.

In Ireland survival rates for oral cancer are low because most people are diagnosed at an advanced stage. If people are better aware of the symptoms and causes, they can look out for the warning signs and get the treatment they need as quickly as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can better rates of survival by as much as 90%.

Reducing your risk

You can reduce your risk of developing mouth cancer by sticking to the recommended daily intake of alcohol, avoiding smoking and attending regular dental check-ups. Eating a healthy, balanced diet will also help to boost your general health, as well as your oral health.

At Dublin18 Dental Care near Deansgrange we provide mouth cancer screenings to enable early diagnosis.