Early detection of oral cancer: how do I ensure I don't miss a tumour?

UNLABELLED The GDC recommend that early detection of oral cancer should form part of every dental surgeon's Continuing Professional Development. It is arguably the most serious condition that can arise within the oral cavity and regular screening practices may also help mitigate spurious claims of prior negligence for failure to detect the cancer at an early stage. Results for routine screening of the entire oral mucosa, together with risk status assessment, should be recorded in a patient's notes at every visit (both negative and positive findings). CLINICAL RELEVANCE A knowledge of how to detect oral cancer early is an essential part of the dentist's armamentarium.