Anyone over the age of eighteen should be checked annually for oral cancer but screening may be required more often for those who use tobacco products or smoke.
Oral cancer causes almost 10,000 deaths every year but can be caught at an early stage by your dentist at a regular check-up. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms you should discuss the matter with your dentist immediately.
– Numbness in the teeth and gums
– Discoloured patches on the tongue or mouth lining
– Persistent sore throat
Oral cancer is rare but “can be lethal” and regular screening is crucial. Further information can be found at
http://yourdentalhealthresource.com/from-what-age-should-i-get-screened-for-oral-cancer/.
I’m Matthew Houlton, principal dentist and practice owner of Manor House Dental Practice.
Qualified from Sheffield dental hospital in 1993.
Post graduate training with Paul Tipton (Specialist Prosthodontist) from 2005-2007.
Diploma for Membership of the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) 2007.
Special interest in Orthodontics.
Yorkshire Deanary Fixed Appliance Training Scheme 2002-2004.
I have worked at York Hospital’s orthodontic department one session a week since 2009.
Member of the British Society of Occlusal Studies (the study of temporomandibular disorder).
I have two children, who keep me busy when I am not at the practice. I take a keen interest in and teach Aikido, a martial art, to keep a healthy mind and body.