Role of Dental and Healthcare Professionals in Preventing Oral Cancer

Oral cavity cancer, or just oral cancer, is cancer that start in the mouth (also called the oral cavity). Oropharyngeal cancer starts in the oropharynx, which is the part of the throat just behind the mouth. The major causes of oral cancer include tobacco use, areca nut chewing and heavy alcohol drinking; avoiding these can prevent the disease. Preceded by precancerous lesions, early oral cancers present as small painless ulcers or growths that can be detected, by careful physical examination, and if effectively treated by the physician. Prevention, early detection and treatment are effective interventions to reduce the worldwide burden of oral cancer. Early detection of oral cancer needs more than just understanding of the signs and symptoms of disease. The process must be managed effectively and handled sensitively. Every member of the dental team has a part to play and protocols should be developed for effective delivery of Dental and healthcare professionals have a crucial role to play in raising awareness of the dangers to oral health associated with smoking and the use of smokeless tobacco. Early detection of oral cancer needs more than just understanding of the signs and symptoms of disease. In its early stages, oral cancer can be treated in up to 90% of cases.