Dentists move into skin cancer detection

Some say it’s not their place, but dentists are branching out into another area of health care they say is a natural extension for their profession.

AUSTRALIAN dentists are joining the fight against skin cancer, taking an interest in the faces of patients rather than just their teeth and gums.

Thousands of dentists who are members of the Australian Academy of Dento-Facial Aesthetics are advising patients of the importance of skin protection and sending them off to the skin experts if they see any suspicious spots.

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Cancer Council Queensland said it welcomed any extra moves by health professionals that will lead to early detection of skin cancer but still advises regular skin checks with their doctors and skin specialists.

“Queensland has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with around 3960 Queenslanders diagnosed with melanoma each year” Cancer Council Queensland chief executive Chris McMillan said.

“It is important to get to know your skin, listen to healthcare advice from medical professionals, get regular skin checks, and use all five forms of sun protection when enjoying the outdoors.

“Sun protection is required when the UV levels reach three and above, and in Queensland this means sun protection is necessary all year round due to consistently high UV levels.

“Cancer Council Queensland encourages all Queenslanders to slip on sun-protective clothing, slop on some SPF30+ or above, water resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen, slap on a wide-brimmed hat, seek shade, and slide on a pair of wraparound sunglasses.”

Australian Academy of Dento-Facial Aesthetics director Myles Holt said dentists were asking patients a simple question that could help save lives.

“Our members will be asking patients if they use sunscreen every day and reminding them of the importance of sun protection,” Dr Holt said.

“While it may seem strange to some patients that their dentist is asking them about sunscreen, what many people don’t realise is that a growing number of Australian dentists are also qualified skincare experts.”

Dr Holt said dento-facial practitioners had a duty of care of that went beyond teeth and gums, and patients were benefiting from their advanced training and knowledge in skin health.

“There have been cases of dentists detecting skin cancers because we work in proximity to the face,” Dr Holt said.

“Dentists have then referred patients on for specialist skin treatment.”

He said those who said it was not the role of dentists to provide skincare advice and treatment were wrong.

“The fact is patients do not see medical doctors or dermatologists routinely and early signs of skin cancer will largely go unnoticed or unchecked for prolonged periods,” Dr Holt said.

“We already play a preventive role when it comes to many general health concerns, and this should include skin cancer.”