Mouth Cancer Action Month: Know the Signs, Spot It Early
November is Mouth Cancer Action Month, a nationwide campaign dedicated to raising awareness of mouth cancer, helping people recognise the warning signs and encouraging early detection.
At Hampton Dental Care, we believe that looking after your oral health is about much more than just your teeth and gums. Regular dental check-ups can also play an important role in identifying the early signs of mouth cancer.
The good news? When mouth cancer is detected early, the chances of successful treatment are significantly better.
What Is Mouth Cancer?
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, can develop in different parts of the mouth, including the tongue, lips, gums, cheeks, roof of the mouth and floor of the mouth.
Thousands of people in the UK are diagnosed with mouth cancer every year.
One of the biggest challenges is that the early signs can be easy to overlook, particularly when they aren't painful.
That's why knowing what to look for is so important.
What Are the Warning Signs of Mouth Cancer?
🔎 There are several symptoms you should never ignore:
Mouth ulcers that don't heal within three weeks – particularly if they are persistent or getting larger.
Red or white patches – unusual patches on the tongue, gums or lining of the mouth.
Unexplained lumps or swellings – anywhere in the mouth, jaw or neck.
Persistent pain or discomfort – particularly if it doesn't have an obvious cause.
Difficulty swallowing or speaking – including a persistent feeling that something is stuck in your throat.
Unexplained loose teeth – especially when there is no obvious dental cause.
Persistent hoarseness – or changes to your voice that don't improve.
Having one of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you have mouth cancer. Many have harmless explanations.
However, if you notice anything unusual, particularly a mouth ulcer lasting longer than three weeks, it's important to get it checked.
Who Is at Risk of Mouth Cancer?
Mouth cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the risk.
These include:
Smoking and tobacco use – one of the biggest risk factors.
Alcohol consumption – particularly heavy drinking, with the risk increasing further when combined with smoking.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) – certain types of HPV are associated with cancers affecting the back of the mouth and throat.
Excessive sun exposure – particularly relevant to cancers of the lip.
Age – risk generally increases as we get older, although younger people can also be affected.
Even if you don't smoke or drink alcohol, it's still important to be aware of the symptoms.
How Can Your Dentist Help?
You might think a dental check-up is simply about checking for cavities or gum disease.
But there's much more to it.
During a routine dental examination, your dentist can also look for unusual signs or changes in the soft tissues of your mouth, including your tongue, cheeks, gums and lips.
If anything concerning is identified, your dentist can explain the findings and arrange an appropriate referral for further investigation.
Early detection can make a significant difference, which is another good reason not to put off your regular dental appointments.
How to Check Your Mouth at Home
It's a good idea to get familiar with what your mouth normally looks and feels like.
Using a mirror and good lighting, take a few minutes to:
Check your lips and gums for unusual patches, lumps or sores.
Look at both sides of your tongue and underneath it.
Examine the inside of your cheeks.
Look at the roof of your mouth.
Feel around your jaw and neck for any unusual lumps or swellings.
If you notice a change that concerns you, arrange a check-up with your dentist or an appointment with your GP.
Remember, checking your mouth at home is helpful, but it doesn't replace a professional examination.
This November, Take Action
Mouth Cancer Action Month is an important reminder that small changes in your mouth shouldn't be ignored.
Knowing the warning signs, checking your mouth regularly and attending routine dental appointments can all help identify potential problems sooner.
Don't wait for something to hurt before getting it checked.
If you're due a dental check-up, or you've noticed something unusual in your mouth, our friendly team is here to help.
🦷 Book your appointment online at www.hamptondental.co.uk
Hampton Dental Care
Exceptional Dentistry. Lower Prices. No Surprises.
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