Screening for Oral Cancer: A Review

Oral cancer is a common disease which affects individuals of mainly the older age group. If diagnosed at later stages, the prognosis is poor. In this review, the various techniques for diagnosis of oral cancer such as screening of the patient by conventional oral examination, supravital staining, visual adjunctive aids, biopsy etc. have been discussed. The traditional treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Newer modalities include gene therapy, immunotherapy, etc. have proven to be successful to some extent. Thorough knowledge of the disease and timely diagnosis by the dental professional can prevent metastasis.