When it comes to protecting your health, including oral health, early detection is everything. An oral cancer screening is a simple, painless process that could make all the difference. It’s one of the most effective ways to spot early signs of mouth cancer before symptoms become more advanced.
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or simply want peace of mind, we’re here to help. We provide thorough oral cancer checks as part of your routine dental care, and we welcome patients from across Brighton, Hove, and the surrounding areas.
Our team offers professional, compassionate care in a calm and reassuring setting, ideal for patients who might be nervous about attending appointments. We take the time to explain everything clearly and make you feel at ease. Book your appointment with us today.
When you attend your mouth cancer screening appointment, one of our experienced dentists will begin by having a relaxed chat with you. You’re welcome to ask questions at any point; we believe in open, honest communication and always take the time to explain what we’re doing and why.
The examination itself is quick and completely pain-free. Using a small mirror and a special light and filter, your dentist will carefully inspect the soft tissues inside your mouth, including your lips, cheeks, tongue (top and underside), the roof and floor of your mouth, your gums, and the back of your throat. They may also gently feel the lymph nodes around your jaw and neck area to check for any swelling or tenderness.
No special preparation is needed before your appointment, and the screening is over before you know it. Most oral cancer examinations are completed in under ten minutes, but we’ll always take as long as you need to feel comfortable and reassured.
In most cases, your oral cancer screening won’t show anything to be concerned about. But if your dentist notices anything unusual during the examination, rest assured that you’ll be looked after every step of the way.
We’ll explain what we’ve found in clear, compassionate terms, and let you know whether further investigation is recommended. This doesn’t necessarily mean something serious has been detected – many mouth sores or lumps turn out to be harmless. However, it’s always best to be cautious and have anything abnormal assessed as soon as possible.
If needed, we’ll refer you to a trusted specialist (this may be completed via the NHS) for further testing or a biopsy. We’ll help coordinate the referral and ensure you know exactly what to expect.
Common mouth cancer symptoms may look like:
It’s important to remember that oral cancer symptoms are not always painful. Many early signs can appear without causing any discomfort, which is why routine oral cancer screening is so vital.
If you notice any of the symptoms above, or you’re unsure about something unusual in your mouth, don’t wait and see. Booking an oral cancer check with your dentist can offer reassurance and, if needed, early intervention.
To learn more about mouth cancer symptoms, causes, and prevention, please see our blog.
While nothing replaces a professional oral cancer check, getting into the habit of examining your mouth at home can help you become more aware of any changes early on and between appointments.
We recommend taking a few minutes once a month to examine your mouth in a mirror, ideally in good lighting. Look at and feel around the following areas:
If you spot any of the signs or symptoms we’ve listed above, you may wish to get in touch and consult with an expert.
It’s also important to note that while home checks are useful for self-awareness, they should never replace regular visits to your dentist. We use specialised equipment and take the time to examine areas of the mouth that aren’t easy to check yourself.
Oral cancer can affect anyone, but certain lifestyle and health factors may increase your risk, such as:
Yes, mouth cancer is curable, particularly when it’s detected and treated early. That’s why regular screenings and paying attention to changes in your mouth are so important. That’s where the team at Hove Dental Clinic plays a vital role. Through routine oral cancer checks, we can help identify potential concerns early on – often before you’ve noticed any symptoms yourself.
Our team brings empathy, professionalism, and a personal approach to patient care, making us the clear choice for oral cancer screening in Brighton and Hove, and across Sussex. With modern facilities in our flagship practice on Portland Road in Hove and a reputation for outstanding dental care, we’ve become a go-to for people searching for excellent care.
Our dentists are highly experienced and specially trained to carry out thorough checks with the utmost care and attention to detail. Whether it’s your first screening or part of your routine check-up, you’ll be treated with kindness and respect every step of the way.
We also recognise that every patient is different. That’s why our approach is always holistic and personalised, meaning we take the time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and tailor your care to your needs.
We also recognise that every patient is different. That’s why our approach is always holistic and personalised, meaning we take the time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and tailor your care to your needs. Nervous about coming in? You’re not alone – and we’re here to help you feel confident, safe, and supported throughout your visit.
A simple oral cancer screening could be one of the most important appointments you ever make. It’s quick, completely painless, and could be potentially life-saving. Whether you’ve noticed changes in your mouth or you just want peace of mind, taking that first step matters.
At Hove Dental Clinic, we make it easy to take control of your health. You can book online in just a few clicks or call our friendly team to schedule your appointment. We’ll take care of the rest.
INSTAGRAM
