November marks Mouth Cancer Action Month, a crucial time to focus on your oral health and spot early signs of this serious disease. Organised by the Oral Health Foundation, the campaign encourages everyone to become more #MouthAware and recognise changes in your mouth that could save your life.
At Park Dental Care in Nottingham, we’re committed to supporting this initiative by helping you understand the symptoms, risks, and the vital role of regular check-ups. Early detection can boost survival rates from around 50% to 90%, so let’s explore how to stay vigilant and keep your smile healthy.
Why Mouth Cancer Awareness Matters
Mouth cancer is one of the UK’s fastest-growing cancers, with around 10,000 diagnoses each year and cases in England at record highs. Health experts urge greater awareness because catching it early makes treatment simpler and more effective. One of my own friends had a cancerous lesion spotted during a routine dental visit, allowing him to have life-saving surgery in time. Regular check-ups, home self-examinations, and knowing the signs are key to protecting your health.
When brushing twice a day, take a moment to check your mouth: look at your face and neck, then examine your lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and the roof and floor of your mouth. Notice anything unusual, and if changes persist, seek advice promptly.
10 Symptoms of Mouth Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore
Mouth cancer can affect the gums, tongue, cheeks, lips, throat, tonsils, or roof of the mouth. Here are ten common symptoms to watch for:
- A mouth ulcer that lasts more than three weeks
Most mouth ulcers heal within a week or two. If yours doesn’t, it’s important to get it checked. - Red or white patches inside your mouth
Discoloured areas that don’t go away could be an early warning sign of abnormal cell changes. - A lump inside your mouth
Any new lump or thickened area should be investigated by your dentist or GP. - Pain or discomfort inside the mouth
Persistent pain without an obvious cause is worth discussing with a dental professional. - Difficulty swallowing or a feeling that something is stuck in your throat
This can be an indication of changes in the tissues of the mouth or throat. - Difficulty speaking or a croaky (hoarse) voice
Voice changes that persist can signal something more serious than a simple sore throat. - A lump in your neck or under the jawline
Swelling in these areas can indicate the spread of infection or, in some cases, cancer. - Unexplained weight loss
While often overlooked, losing weight without trying can be a sign that your body is fighting an underlying illness. - Loose teeth for no obvious reason
If your teeth start to loosen without gum disease or trauma, it’s best to seek professional advice. - A lump or thickening of your lip
This can sometimes develop due to sun exposure or other irritants and should not be ignored.
These symptoms are common and often caused by infections or irritation, but if they last more than three weeks, see your dentist or GP. Early treatment is usually less invasive and more successful.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Certain habits increase your risk of mouth cancer. Knowing them helps you make healthier choices:
- Tobacco use – smoking will dramatically increase your risk.
- Excessive alcohol consumption – heavy drinking, particularly with smoking, greatly raises the likelihood.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection – a common virus affecting the mouth and throat.
- Poor oral hygiene – neglecting care can lead to gum disease and abnormal cell changes.
- Family history of oral cancer – genetics can play a role.
- Excessive sun exposure to the lips – unprotected lips, especially for outdoor workers, can develop changes.
Reducing risks – like quitting smoking, moderating alcohol, maintaining oral hygiene, and using SPF lip balm – makes a real difference. I’ve seen clients feel empowered by these changes, protecting their health and smile.
The Role of Your Dentist and Hygienist
Regular dental visits do more than keep teeth clean – they can detect early signs of mouth cancer. At Park Dental Care, our team examines your mouth, gums, tongue, and lips for abnormalities during every check-up. Hygienists are especially thorough during cleanings, spotting concerns to discuss with the dentist. Attending routine appointments gives you the best chance for early detection and prevention.
Stay #MouthAware This November
Mouth Cancer Action Month is a reminder to prioritise your oral health. I love seeing clients take simple steps like self-checks and regular visits – it’s about peace of mind and potentially saving lives. At Park Dental Care, our welcoming Nottingham practice offers expert care in a calming space, helping you stay vigilant with ease.
Book your check-up or hygienist appointment today on 0115 9101447 or online – and encourage your family and friends to do the same. Together, we can help raise awareness and keep our community #MouthAware.