What is Mouth Cancer?
Mouth Cancer Action month is a call for you to check your oral health.
We all know that cancer can affect anyone at any time, but not everyone is aware that you can have it in the mouth. Cases of mouth cancer are becoming more frequent in people over the age of 40 and can have devastating effects. Even more shockingly, more than 1,800 people in the UK lose their life to mouth cancer each year (BSDHT).
Early detection
At every dental examination, not only does your Dentist check the health of your teeth, they also check the soft tissues in your mouth: the tongue, gums, cheeks and inner soft tissues. Your dentist will be looking for red or white patches, ulcers or anything that looks unusual.
If you have anything that concerns you, it is best to go and see your regular dentist so they can check against your previous dental records. If they notice anything that is a concern, they will refer you to a consultant for further investigation. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Keep your mouth healthy
It is important to visit your Dentist regularly, even if you wear full dentures. This is especially important if you smoke or drink alcohol. If you haven’t visited your dentist for over 6 months, then we strongly recommend that you make an appointment now.
A good diet, rich in vitamins A, C and E provides protection against developing mouth cancer, along with plenty of fruit and vegetables.
