A surgeon is urging people not to skip regular dental check-ups, warning that missing these appointments could mean overlooking signs of potentially deadly oral cancers.
While many assume dentists focus solely on cavities and gum health, routine visits play a vital role in catching serious conditions early. In the U.S., the National Cancer Institute estimates oral cancers will account for 2.1 percent of cancer deaths this year, claiming around 12,770 lives.
Oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers—types of head and neck cancer—can develop on the tongue, tonsils, gums, lips, or the minor salivary glands in the roof of the mouth, according to the American Cancer Society. Dentists are often the first healthcare professionals to notice abnormalities that patients or other doctors may miss.
Dr. Andrej Bozic, of Dentum in Croatia, said: “Your dentist isn’t only checking for cavities. We also look for patches, ulcers, or lumps in the back of the mouth and throat—things you might not notice yourself. Ignoring those check-ups could mean missing an early cancer diagnosis.”
Symptoms to watch for include unusual white or red patches, persistent ulcers, lumps, or difficulty swallowing. Dr. Bozic advised: “If any of these symptoms persist for more than a couple of weeks, see your dentist or GP straight away. Early detection by a dentist greatly improves outcomes.”
Case studies highlight the importance of regular visits. A father-of-four, Robert Powell, ignored a persistent sore throat for months until his dentist detected abnormalities and referred him for medical treatment. Powell was diagnosed with tonsil cancer but recovered after chemotherapy and radiotherapy, though he still experiences some side effects. “Regular dental check-ups really can be a matter of life or death,” he said.
Similarly, Gateway Dental reported a case where a patient’s mild mouth discomfort was initially overlooked by a doctor. A dentist performing an oral cancer screening identified a lesion, leading to urgent treatment. The patient, diagnosed with advanced oral cancer, survived thanks to early detection. The practice emphasised that dentists, who examine the mouth daily, are uniquely positioned to catch oral cancers early.
Oral cancer is often called a “silent threat” because it can be nearly pain-free and difficult to detect in early stages. When identified promptly, the survival rate can reach up to 90 percent.
The message is clear: keeping up with dental appointments every six months isn’t just about oral hygiene—it can be life-saving.
