Sandra here (Helen's daughter). I posted the "See a doctor not a dentist" message. To clarify, I certainly don't expect a dentist (or a primary care physician for that matter) to be able to *diagnose* oral cancer. But I do expect them to know a lot more than I do and I expect them to recognize when a lesion is serious (though out of their purview) and needs followup.

An "It's not anything serious" or "It's only a fever blister" from a respected dental professional can cost a patient weeks if not months of precious time in following up on a lesion that could be cancer.

My mother's surgery is tomorrow, July 2nd. Say a prayer for her. Thanks.