Jaw metastases and the general dental practitioner.

Metastatic spread to the oral cavity is a rare entity, comprising 1% of oral malignancies. However, 25% of oral metastases are found to be the initial sign of metastatic spread; therefore, initial presentation in the oral cavity may indicate significant underlying disease. Common primary sites for men include the prostate, lung, kidney and liver. For women, it is the breast, kidney, colon and genital organs. General dental practitioners are in a unique position to identify and instigate rapid referrals as gatekeepers of primary care whereby patients commonly present to them with symptoms. This clinical review article aims to educate dental practitioners on appropriate recognition of oral metastatic pathology and referral to secondary care.