Oral Cancer Screening and Care in London

Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the tissues of the mouth. It can affect the lips, tongue, gums, roof of the mouth, floor of the mouth, or the inner lining of the cheeks. Because oral cancer is classified under head and neck cancers, its diagnosis and treatment often follow similar medical pathways.

Early detection plays a vital role in improving treatment outcomes. At Thousand Smiles, our dental team is trained to recognise warning signs during routine check-ups and can provide timely referrals for further investigation if needed.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer may present in different ways depending on where it develops. Common signs and symptoms include:

Persistent mouth pain or discomfort
Sores on the lips or inside the mouth that do not heal
A lump, thickening, or growth in the mouth
White or red patches on the lining of the mouth or tongue
Loose teeth without an obvious cause
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Ear pain not linked to other conditions

If you notice any of these symptoms lasting longer than two weeks, it is important to arrange a dental or medical assessment.

If you have ongoing oral symptoms or concerns, call Thousand Smiles today on 020 3773 2280 to book an examination.

020 3773 2280

Causes of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer begins when genetic changes (mutations) occur within the cells of the mouth or lips. These mutations cause abnormal cells to grow uncontrollably rather than dying naturally, leading to tumour formation. Over time, these cells can spread to surrounding tissues and, in advanced cases, to other parts of the body.

Most oral cancers start in the squamous cells that line the mouth, making squamous cell carcinoma the most common type. While the exact cause of mutations remains unclear, certain lifestyle and health factors increase the risk of developing oral cancer.

Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk of oral cancer if you:

Use tobacco in any form (cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, snuff)
Consume alcohol heavily over a prolonged period
Have frequent or prolonged sun exposure, particularly affecting the lips
Carry human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection linked to certain oral cancers
Have a weakened immune system due to illness or medication

Being aware of these risk factors allows for earlier prevention and regular monitoring.

Prevention

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent oral cancer, adopting healthier habits can reduce risk:

Avoid tobacco – quitting smoking or chewing tobacco removes one of the biggest risk factors.
Limit alcohol intake – drinking in moderation helps protect the mouth from irritation and cell damage.
Protect lips from the sun – wear a broad-brimmed hat, seek shade when outdoors, and use a lip balm with SPF.
Maintain regular dental visits – routine check-ups include oral cancer screening, giving your dentist the chance to spot early changes.
Maintain good oral hygiene and diet – keeping your mouth healthy lowers irritation and supports the body’s natural defences.

Visiting dentist for mouth pain or discomfort

When to See a Dentist

You should seek dental advice if you:

Notice persistent sores or ulcers that do not heal within two weeks.
Discover a lump or abnormal tissue inside the mouth.
Experience ongoing pain, difficulty swallowing, or changes in your bite.
Have unexplained loose teeth or swelling.

Our dentists will carefully examine your mouth and, if necessary, recommend further investigations such as a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Diagnosis and Treatment Pathway

If oral cancer is suspected, diagnosis may involve:

Treatment pathway for physical examination of the mouth

A full visual and physical examination of the mouth.
Biopsy of suspicious tissue to test for cancer cells.
Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to assess the extent of the disease.

Treatment is usually carried out in hospital settings and may include:

Surgery to remove the cancerous tissue.
Radiotherapy to target and destroy cancer cells.
Chemotherapy in advanced or widespread cases.
Targeted drug therapy or immunotherapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.

Dentists play an important role in detecting oral cancer early and supporting patients before, during, and after treatment.

Complications associated with oral cancer

Complications of Oral Cancer

Without prompt treatment, oral cancer can lead to serious complications, including:

Difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing
Spread of cancer to nearby structures or other parts of the body
Weight loss or malnutrition from eating difficulties
Lasting changes to appearance or oral function after surgery
Increased risk of recurrence if risk factors are not addressed

Early detection significantly reduces the risk of severe complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is oral cancer common?

Oral cancer is less common than some other cancers but is one of the most serious conditions affecting the mouth. Thousands of new cases are diagnosed each year in the UK.
Is oral cancer painful?

Not always. In its early stages, oral cancer may be painless. This is why regular dental check-ups are vital for early detection.
Can young people develop oral cancer?

Yes, though the risk is higher in older adults. HPV-related oral cancers are increasingly seen in younger patients.
Does oral cancer always mean surgery?

Not necessarily. Treatment depends on the stage and type of cancer. Some cases can be managed with radiotherapy or other approaches.
How often should I be screened?

Dentists typically screen for oral cancer during routine check-ups. Most adults should visit the dentist at least twice a year.

Why Choose Thousand Smiles?

Dentists trained to detect the early signs of oral cancer.
Thorough examinations at every routine check-up.
Clear advice on lifestyle changes and prevention.
Supportive referrals for patients requiring hospital-based treatment.

We are committed to protecting your oral health and ensuring that any suspicious changes are investigated promptly.

Book Your Oral Cancer Screening

If you have noticed changes in your mouth or want peace of mind, book an appointment with our experienced team today. Early detection could make all the difference.