HEAD AND NECK CANCER: THE ROLE OF THE DENTIST

World Head and Neck Cancer Day is observed on 27 July to raise awareness about prevention, warning signs and the importance of early diagnosis.

Head and neck cancer can affect the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, sinuses, salivary glands, and the skin of the face and neck.

Regular appointments with a dentist can be essential for identifying suspicious changes at an early stage.

What Are the Main Warning Signs?

Some signs should not be ignored, especially when they persist for more than two weeks:

• Mouth sores that do not heal;
• White or red patches in the mouth;
• Persistent pain in the mouth or throat;
• Difficulty or pain when swallowing;
• Swelling or lumps in the neck;
• Persistent changes in the voice;
• Persistent bad breath with no apparent cause.

The presence of one of these signs does not necessarily mean that cancer is present. However, it should always be assessed by a healthcare professional.

How Does a Dentist Identify Suspicious Changes?

During a routine appointment, the dentist carries out a detailed examination of the oral cavity.

The lips, tongue, gums, roof of the mouth, inner cheeks, throat and surrounding tissues are carefully examined. This allows the dentist to identify persistent sores, changes in colour, swelling, hard areas or other lesions that may require further investigation.

When a suspicious change is detected, the dentist may recommend additional tests or refer the patient to a specialist.

This early intervention can contribute to a faster diagnosis and more effective treatment.

Head and Neck Cancer Risk Factors

The main risk factors include:

• Smoking;
• Excessive alcohol consumption;
• Poor oral hygiene;
• Human papillomavirus infection, also known as HPV;
• Excessive sun exposure;
• A poor or unbalanced diet.

The combination of smoking and alcohol consumption can significantly increase the risk, making prevention and regular monitoring even more important.

How Can Head and Neck Cancer Be Prevented?

Prevention begins with healthier habits and regular oral health check-ups.

Important preventive measures include:

• Avoiding tobacco;
• Limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption;
• Maintaining good oral hygiene;
• Attending regular dental appointments;
• Using sun protection on the lips and skin;
• Seeking information about HPV vaccination;
• Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables.
• Early Detection Can Make a Difference

Head and neck cancer can be treated more effectively when detected at an early stage.

Dentists are on the frontline of prevention and early detection, as they can identify changes that may not be easily visible to the patient.

Do not wait for pain or severe symptoms to appear. A simple oral examination can make all the difference.

Keep up with your regular dental appointments.