Cancer Research UK main site

Dentist / Oral Maxillofacial

John-S
Offline

I'm confused and my world has been turned upside down. My dentist examined me and said he is refering me to the hospital for a biopsy as there are white marks on the side of my tounge. 

Naturaly for me I am thinking the worst and that I have maybe have 5 years to live; but here is the confusing part. I have been on the NHS website and I have none of the symptoms for oral cancer and I cannot see anything on my tounge. My sister has been in there with her iphone torch and cant see anything. I've tried natural dayligjht as well.

The dentist never offered me a mirror or took a picture to show me and in the same breath said I should make an appointment for the private hygienist for the staining on my teeth. IN THE SAME BREATH. 

I have a video appointment a week tomorrow with Maxi whats its name. 

  • Hello John-S

    I'm sorry to hear that you're waiting on an appointment with the maxillofacial team at the moment. From your post, it sounds as if your dentist was being cautious in referring you to a specialist. 

    We know that many people find this period of waiting for appointments to be difficult and it's natural to feel anxious. Sometimes it can help to talk your concerns through with someone and if you think that may help you, then you're welcome to give our team of nurses a call. They're available Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Do let us know how you get on next week. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.