The importance of the dental surgeon in the diagnosis and monitoring of the oral cancer

Abstract

Oral cancer is a public health problem worldwide. Despite the high incidence of cases in developed countries, most of the cases detected late are in underdeveloped countries and often in the population with little access to health and information services. Early diagnosis plays an important strategic role in treatment success, since late diagnosis contributes to an unfavorable prognosis. The main causes associated with the development of this neoplasia are smoking and alcohol consumption. The dental surgeon plays a very important role in the diagnosis of oral cancer, in addition can contribute for developing actions and policies for the prevention and early diagnosis of oral cancer. Objective: The objective of this paper is evaluating, through a literature review, the activity of the dental surgeon in the diagnosis and management of oral cancer. A literature review was performed using Google Academic and keywords: oral cancer, risk factors, dental surgeon, diagnosis and treatment. The role of the dental surgeon is of great importance in health care of patients with oral cancer. In addition to diagnosing and monitoring these patients, which may present side effects due to antineoplastic treatment. Dental surgeon can contribute to elaborate and carrying out projects aimed at prevention, reinforcing the risk factors and clinical aspects of potentially malignant lesions.