Does mouth cancer screening hurt?

No. It is a visual examination with light touch only — there are no needles, dyes or discomfort involved.

How often should I be screened?

At every routine examination, which for most patients means every six to twelve months depending on your risk profile.

What early signs should I look out for at home?

An ulcer or sore that has not healed in three weeks, a red or white patch, an unexplained lump in the mouth or neck, persistent pain or numbness, difficulty swallowing or a hoarse voice that lingers. Contact us promptly if you notice any of these.

Is there an extra charge?

No — mouth cancer screening is part of your dental health examination at our Staplehurst practice, not an add-on.

I have found something and I am worried. Can I be seen quickly?

Yes. Call the practice and explain what you have noticed; we will prioritise an appointment for you.

Mouth Cancer Screening in Staplehurst, Kent

Mouth cancer is far more treatable when it is found early — and a dentist is often the first person to spot it. Every examination at our Staplehurst, Kent practice includes a careful mouth cancer screening, and it takes only a couple of painless minutes.

Included as standard in every routine examination

Completely painless and takes only minutes

Checks lips, tongue, cheeks, palate, floor of mouth and neck

Early detection dramatically improves outcomes

Clear advice on risk factors and warning signs

Urgent onward referral arranged when needed

What mouth cancer screening involves

We visually inspect and gently feel the soft tissues of the mouth: the lips, inside the cheeks, the gums, the roof of the mouth, the tongue — including underneath and along the sides — the floor of the mouth and the tonsil area. We also palpate the lymph nodes in the neck and jaw.

We are looking for ulcers that have not healed within three weeks, red or white patches, unexplained lumps, persistent hoarseness or numbness, and any tissue change that does not have an obvious cause.

Who should have a screening

Everybody. Mouth cancer can affect people who have never smoked or drunk alcohol, and cases linked to HPV are rising in younger adults. Risk is higher for smokers, people who use chewing tobacco or betel, heavy drinkers and those with a history of significant sun exposure to the lips. If you live in or around Staplehurst, Kent and have not had a dental check for some time, this alone is a good reason to book.

If we find something

Most changes we see turn out to be harmless — a trauma ulcer, a cheek bite or a viral lesion. Where something needs monitoring we will review it in two to three weeks. If we have any concern at all, we refer you urgently to a local maxillofacial specialist so you are seen quickly, and we explain exactly what happens next.