Mouth Cancer Awareness: Know the Signs and Protect Your Health
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November marks Mouth Cancer Action Month, an annual campaign led by the Oral Health Foundation. It aims to raise awareness of mouth cancer, encourage early detection and help people understand the importance of recognising unusual changes in their mouth.
Mouth cancer is becoming increasingly common in the UK. More than 11,000 people are now diagnosed each year. Yet many people are still unaware of the warning signs or that their dentist routinely checks for signs of mouth cancer during dental examinations.
At Larkham House Dental Practice in Plymouth, we believe that raising awareness is an important part of supporting our patients’ overall health. Knowing what to look for and when to seek advice could make a real difference
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, can develop in different areas of the mouth and surrounding tissues. This includes the lips, tongue, gums, inside the cheeks, roof or floor of the mouth, and tonsils.
It can affect anyone, although certain lifestyle factors can increase the risk.
Early detection is particularly important. Recognising changes and seeking professional advice promptly can help ensure that any concerns receive the attention they need.
Knowing the early signs of mouth cancer can help you take action if something does not look or feel right.
Look out for the following symptoms:
Most ordinary mouth ulcers clear up within one or two weeks. However, an ulcer that lasts longer than three weeks should always be checked by a dentist or doctor.
Unusual red or white patches inside your mouth can sometimes be a warning sign. Pay attention to any patches that do not disappear.
Look for unusual lumps or swellings in your mouth, on your lips, or around your neck. These should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Unexplained pain in your mouth, tongue or throat should not be ignored. This includes discomfort that does not improve.
Changes in your ability to swallow or speak comfortably can sometimes indicate an underlying problem. A persistent hoarse voice should also be checked.
Remember: These symptoms do not automatically mean you have mouth cancer. Many can have other causes. However, it is important to get any persistent or unusual changes checked.
Mouth cancer can affect people of all ages. However, some factors can increase the risk.
These include:
Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop mouth cancer. Equally, people without these risk factors can still be affected. This is why everyone should be aware of the warning signs.
It is worth getting into the habit of checking your mouth regularly. A simple self-check can help you become familiar with what is normal for you.
Use a mirror and good lighting to look at:
Look for changes in colour, texture, shape or appearance. If you notice anything unusual, arrange an appointment with your dentist or GP.
A self-check does not replace a professional examination, but it can help you recognise changes between appointments.
Your routine dental examination is about more than checking your teeth and gums.
As part of your appointment, your dentist can also look for unusual changes in the soft tissues of your mouth. This includes your tongue, cheeks, lips and gums.
At Larkham House Dental Practice, we encourage our patients to attend regular dental examinations and to mention any concerns they may have.
If you have noticed a persistent ulcer, unusual patch, lump or other change, please do not wait until your next routine appointment. Contact your dentist or GP for advice.
Mouth Cancer Action Month is an important reminder to look after your oral health and pay attention to changes in your mouth.
Take a few moments to check your mouth regularly. Be aware of the warning signs. Attend your routine dental appointments and never feel embarrassed about raising a concern.
Early detection matters. If something does not look or feel right, get it checked.
If you have any concerns about your oral health, our friendly team at Larkham House Dental Practice in Plymouth is here to help.
To arrange an appointment, contact our team on 01752 343 140 to find out more about our general dental care.
Your oral health matters. Don’t ignore the signs.
