Dental Professional's Role in Early Detection of Oral Carcinoma- A Review

Abstract

It is well known today that early diagnosis of oral carcinoma greatly increases the probability of cure, therefore leading to minimum impairment and deformity. Oral cancer incidence rose dramatically during the 20th century in the United States and Europe. Delays in the diagnosis of oral cancer are universal and affect a significant number of patients throughout the world. Clinical examination and diagnostic techniques can lead to the early detection of premalignant and early oral cancer. There is a possible association between oral cancer risk due to tobacco, alcohol, poor oral hygiene as well as diet and the nutritional status of an individual. In this review, the role of a dentist as a part of primary dental health team is discussed so as to reduce the mortality and morbidity due to oral cancer. It will lead to the promotion of oral health by early detection and prevention of oral malignancy. Hence, comprehensive educational, behavioural, and procedural interventions for oral cancer that target health care providers and the public are stressed.

Keywords: Diagnosis, early detection, oral carcinoma, prevention.