I've found this thread interesting because things seem to be done so differently here! In January, having slight numbness of lower lip went to doc--'No idea, use mouthwash or see a dentist' Dentist appt 1 week later--good exam, suspected thinned jawbone, exposed nerve. had X-Ray, confirmed, letter sent to maxiofacial surgeon. Appointment for 19th April!! Twicew during those months, my jaw seemed to 'crack', swelling began and pain built up. Saw surgeon who said 'oops, probably IS cancer, sent me for immediate chest X-Ray and marked MRI scan form 'urgent'--said it would be done and I'd be back in clinic within a week--after a week I phoned and was told appt. was earliest available at May 15th! Hospital rang me today to say appt probably next week--guess now they're REALLY telling me something!