The signs and symptoms of oral cancer
Oral cancer is characterized from abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue or throat. With early detection, oral cancers have a high rate of successful treatment. The people at the greatest risk for oral cancers are those over the age of 45 but regardless of your age, you should opt for oral cancer screening if you’ve experienced any of the following symptoms:
- Discoloured patches in your mouth or on your lips including white or dark red in colour.
- Unfamiliar lumps or unusual changes in texture.
- Canker sores that won’t heal, numb patches or persistent bleeding.
- Unusual feeling tongue, change in sense of taste and difficulty swallowing.
The risk factors for oral cancer
There are several behaviours and conditions that are associated with a higher risk of oral cancer. These include:
- Smoking or consuming tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars and chewing tobacco
- Heavy or moderately heavy consumption of alcohol (especially combined with tobacco)
- Possibility of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection of the mouth.
- Excessive exposure to the sun; a lifestyle that includes lots of sun exposure.
- A poor diet or poor eating habits.
- Family history of oral cancer.
- Oral cancer is more common in men than in women.
- A history of leukoplakia (a thick, whitish-colour patch that develops inside the mouth)
Prevention, detection and treatment of oral cancer
Treatment will be planned on a case by case basis and will heavily depend on the severity, type and location of the suspected cancer.Spotting early signs of cancer
The goal of an oral cancer screening is the early detection of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. During the exam, your dentist will look over the inside of your mouth and under your tongue for red or white patches or suspicious sores. Your dentist will also feel the tissues in your mouth to check for lumps or odd textures and may also feel the outside of your throat and neck for lumps.
Diagnosis and treatment
If signs of cancer are detected during your oral screening you may be asked to undergo additional testing such as a biopsy (where a small piece of the suspicious tissue is removed for lab examination) or imaging tests like Xrays, ultrasounds, CT scans or an MRI. To remove confirmed tumours, surgery or chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be necessary.
Prevention of oral cancer
You can take steps now to help prevent oral cancer later. To help reduce your risk of oral cancer see your dentist regularly for routine exams, stop using tobacco products and drink responsibly, be mindful of your exposure to direct sunlight and use U/V protective lip balms, eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and veggies and during your routine brushing and flossing rituals, remember to check your mouth for signs or symptoms so that you can report any concerns to your dentist.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Winner Of The Three Best Rated Award
Dr. Bukhari is the winner of the 3 Best Dentists in Norfolk.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any of the risk factors for oral cancer it’s a good idea to ask for an oral cancer screening at your regular dental exam. If you have discovered an unusually coloured or textured patch in your mouth or a lump or suspicious sore you’re encouraged to schedule an appointment to get it checked out.
Your dentist will examine your lips and the inside of your mouth including your cheeks, gums and all sides of your tongue. They will also carefully feel around for any lumps or unusual textures. The dentist may also feel your face, jaw, throat and neck for unusual lumps or tenderness.
Wash your hands with warm soapy water. In front of your bathroom mirror, you’ll want to examine the roof of your mouth, your lips, tongue and gums. Pull your top lip up and bottom lip down to see behind them. You may use a piece of gauze or a cotton pad to help you grip your tongue to check the sides and underside. Do your best to look at your gums, and use your fingers to feel the insides of your mouth. You’re looking and feeling for colour changes, lumps and bumps, unusual textures or tenderness. Let your dentist know if you have any sores that have not healed after two weeks.
Small, usually painless, flat patches that may appear red, white, gray or yellow with red edges. These small patches can affect any area of the mouth including the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue and the roof of the mouth. As a good rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to have anything that looks or feels unusual checked out by your doctor or dentist.
Google Verified Patient Reviews
Healthful Choices
2 weeks ago
New in town and so happy to come across the team at Port Dover Family Dentistry. I'm super nervous about dental work and was relieved at how great Dr. Bukhari and team were through everything.
Irene O'Callaghan
2 months ago
This was my first visit and I had such a great experience! The staff were friendly and welcoming, making sure to communicate the cost of the services upfront to ensure I was comfortable moving ahead, which I truly appreciated! I felt very looked after and they took care that I was never in any discomfort throughout my time there. Would definitely recommend Port Dover Family Dentistry!!
Geevan Lal Soman
2 months ago
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Port Dover Family Dentistry for my dental check-up, and I must say, it was an outstanding experience from start to finish. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a welcoming atmosphere that immediately put me at ease. Dr. Bukhari, the lead dentist at Port Dover Family Dentistry, embodies professionalism with a touch of warmth. His friendly and jovial demeanor instantly made me feel comfortable, and I appreciated how he took the time to thoroughly explain every aspect of my dental health. Dr. Bukhari not only identified any issues but also discussed treatment options with me in a way that was easy to understand, empowering me to make informed decisions about my dental care. The dental hygienist, Erin, who cleaned my teeth was equally exceptional. Not only was she highly skilled and thorough in her work, but her friendly and gentle approach made the experience surprisingly pleasant. She took the time to ensure I was comfortable throughout the cleaning process, and her attention to detail left my teeth feeling incredibly clean and refreshed. Beyond the dental professionals, the front desk staff, Meggin and Christina, at Port Dover Family Dentistry deserves commendation as well. Their warm and friendly demeanor made scheduling appointments and handling paperwork a breeze. They were always willing to go the extra mile to accommodate my needs and preferences, making me feel like a valued member of their dental family. What truly sets Port Dover Family Dentistry apart is their genuine sense of community and family. From the moment you step through the door, you're not just another patient – you're treated like a member of their extended family. This warm and inviting atmosphere creates a sense of comfort and trust that is truly unmatched. In conclusion, I can't recommend Port Dover Family Dentistry highly enough. Dr. Bukhari and his staff provide top-notch dental care with a personal touch that sets them apart from the rest. If you're looking for a dental clinic where you'll be treated like family, look no further than Port Dover Family Dentistry. Your smile will thank you!
Jackie Walton
3 months ago
Friendly staff, felt very welcome from the moment I walked in . Office was very clean and professional looking, this was my third Visit really pleased with the work that has been done. Will definitely be back in the fall for my next cleaning, thank you also very much for making me feel so welcome. Take care talk soon Jackie Walton
Chantelle Seguin
3 months ago
I cannot express enough how grateful I am to Dr. Bukhari, Meghan, Shannon and the entire team at PD dentistry. Each and every one of the team goes above and beyond in every interaction. They are so friendly, make you feel calm, confident and taken care of. I recently had a huge procedure done (4 front crowns!) and they took the time to explain the procedure in great detail and even set me up to meet with Pow Laboratories to do custom shading (they did a great job). Dr Bukhari did AMAZING work and I have had nothing but compliments on my new smile 😄! … I wish I did this years ago! Sincerely, from the bottom of my heart, thank you! I feel much more confident and I am so appreciative of this great experience!
Healthful Choices
2 weeks ago
New in town and so happy to come across the team at Port Dover Family Dentistry. I'm super nervous about dental work and was relieved at how great Dr. Bukhari and team were through everything.
Irene O'Callaghan
2 months ago
This was my first visit and I had such a great experience! The staff were friendly and welcoming, making sure to communicate the cost of the services upfront to ensure I was comfortable moving ahead, which I truly appreciated! I felt very looked after and they took care that I was never in any discomfort throughout my time there. Would definitely recommend Port Dover Family Dentistry!!
Geevan Lal Soman
2 months ago
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Port Dover Family Dentistry for my dental check-up, and I must say, it was an outstanding experience from start to finish. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a welcoming atmosphere that immediately put me at ease. Dr. Bukhari, the lead dentist at Port Dover Family Dentistry, embodies professionalism with a touch of warmth. His friendly and jovial demeanor instantly made me feel comfortable, and I appreciated how he took the time to thoroughly explain every aspect of my dental health. Dr. Bukhari not only identified any issues but also discussed treatment options with me in a way that was easy to understand, empowering me to make informed decisions about my dental care. The dental hygienist, Erin, who cleaned my teeth was equally exceptional. Not only was she highly skilled and thorough in her work, but her friendly and gentle approach made the experience surprisingly pleasant. She took the time to ensure I was comfortable throughout the cleaning process, and her attention to detail left my teeth feeling incredibly clean and refreshed. Beyond the dental professionals, the front desk staff, Meggin and Christina, at Port Dover Family Dentistry deserves commendation as well. Their warm and friendly demeanor made scheduling appointments and handling paperwork a breeze. They were always willing to go the extra mile to accommodate my needs and preferences, making me feel like a valued member of their dental family. What truly sets Port Dover Family Dentistry apart is their genuine sense of community and family. From the moment you step through the door, you're not just another patient – you're treated like a member of their extended family. This warm and inviting atmosphere creates a sense of comfort and trust that is truly unmatched. In conclusion, I can't recommend Port Dover Family Dentistry highly enough. Dr. Bukhari and his staff provide top-notch dental care with a personal touch that sets them apart from the rest. If you're looking for a dental clinic where you'll be treated like family, look no further than Port Dover Family Dentistry. Your smile will thank you!
Jackie Walton
3 months ago
Friendly staff, felt very welcome from the moment I walked in . Office was very clean and professional looking, this was my third Visit really pleased with the work that has been done. Will definitely be back in the fall for my next cleaning, thank you also very much for making me feel so welcome. Take care talk soon Jackie Walton
Chantelle Seguin
3 months ago
I cannot express enough how grateful I am to Dr. Bukhari, Meghan, Shannon and the entire team at PD dentistry. Each and every one of the team goes above and beyond in every interaction. They are so friendly, make you feel calm, confident and taken care of. I recently had a huge procedure done (4 front crowns!) and they took the time to explain the procedure in great detail and even set me up to meet with Pow Laboratories to do custom shading (they did a great job). Dr Bukhari did AMAZING work and I have had nothing but compliments on my new smile 😄! … I wish I did this years ago! Sincerely, from the bottom of my heart, thank you! I feel much more confident and I am so appreciative of this great experience!
