ROLE OF THE DENTIST IN THE EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF ORAL CANCER: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Oral cancer is a highly prevalent disease and a major public health concern, with high mortality rates mainly due to late diagnosis. The dentist plays an essential role in this context, being the professional most qualified to identify malignant and potentially malignant lesions during routine clinical examinations. This study aims to analyze, through a literature review, the role of the dentist in the early diagnosis of oral cancer, emphasizing the importance of prevention, professional training, and population awareness. Several studies published between 2008 and 2025 were analyzed, addressing the dentist’s performance in the context of oral cancer. The results demonstrated a consensus among the authors regarding the relevance of early detection, continuing education, and preventive actions as effective strategies to reduce morbidity and mortality rates. It is concluded that early diagnosis depends not only on the dentist’s technical training but also on their ethical, investigative, and educational approach towards patients, reinforcing the need for public policies aimed at promoting oral health and preventing oral cancer.