Mouth Cancer Action Month: Raising Awareness and Early Detection

November is Mouth Cancer Action Month, an annual campaign dedicated to raising awareness about mouth cancer, its symptoms, and the critical role early detection plays in improving survival rates. During this month, dental practices, health organisations, and cancer charities come together to educate the public on how to spot the signs of mouth cancer, as well as offer advice on prevention and healthy habits to reduce the risk. Inspired Dental Care, located in Exeter, is proud to participate in this important initiative and urges the public to take notice of the symptoms that could indicate mouth cancer.

Mouth cancer, which includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth, and throat; is a growing concern in the UK and globally. With early diagnosis, survival rates improve significantly, but unfortunately, many cases go undetected until they are more advanced, leading to worse outcomes. In this article, we will discuss the signs and symptoms that Inspired Dental Care clinicians urge patients to look out for, as well as provide tips on prevention and key facts to raise awareness of mouth cancer.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection is a vital factor in improving the survival rates for mouth cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, when mouth cancer is diagnosed at the earliest stage, the survival rate is over 90%. However, if it is detected in the later stages, survival rates drop significantly, with only around 50% of people surviving five years or more. This is why campaigns like Mouth Cancer Action Month are crucial in encouraging people to be proactive about checking for signs and seeking help early if they notice any changes.

Despite the availability of preventative measures and the importance of regular oral health assessments, mouth cancer is still often overlooked or misdiagnosed, leading to late-stage discovery. This is why it’s essential for both dental professionals and patients to stay vigilant.

At Inspired Dental Care, we encourage our patients to take proactive steps to stay informed, detect potential symptoms early, and prioritise their health. Early detection truly makes a difference in the prognosis and success of treatment.

Key Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For

Inspired Dental Care strongly recommends being mindful of any unusual changes inside your mouth. Many mouth cancer symptoms can initially be subtle and might be mistaken for common oral issues such as sores or irritation. However, there are several signs that could indicate something more serious. Recognising these early warning signs is the first step in seeking help and potentially catching the disease before it progresses.

Here are the signs and symptoms that Inspired Dental Care advises patients to look out for:

1. Persistent Mouth Ulcers

A mouth ulcer that doesn’t heal after two to three weeks could be a sign of mouth cancer. Most ulcers will heal within this timeframe, but if one persists, it’s important to get it checked by a healthcare professional.

2. Unexplained Lumps or Swellings

Swelling or lumps in the mouth, neck, or jaw could be an early sign of mouth cancer. If a lump feels unusual, painful, or doesn’t go away over time, it should be examined by your dentist or doctor.

3. Sore Throat or Hoarseness

Ongoing pain in the throat, difficulty swallowing, or a hoarse voice that doesn’t improve with time could indicate a problem with the throat or voice box (larynx), potentially caused by mouth cancer.

4. Pain or Tenderness in the Mouth

Pain or tenderness in any area of the mouth that lasts for a prolonged period, particularly if it doesn’t seem related to an obvious cause (e.g., injury or toothache), should not be ignored.

5. White or Red Patches in the Mouth

The appearance of white or red patches on the gums, tongue, or inside the cheeks (known as leukoplakia and erythroplakia, respectively) can indicate an area of irritation that may develop into cancer. These patches should be professionally assessed if they don’t go away.

6. Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing

Difficulty moving your jaw, chewing food, or swallowing liquids could be a symptom of cancer affecting the oral cavity or throat. It’s important to consult a dentist or GP if you have trouble eating or drinking.

7. Unexplained Weight Loss

Weight loss without a clear cause can sometimes be linked to mouth or throat cancer, particularly if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty swallowing or pain.

8. Bleeding or Numbness

Unexplained bleeding in the mouth, or a feeling of numbness, especially if it affects the tongue or lips, should be evaluated by a dental or medical professional.

At Inspired Dental Care in Exeter, we encourage all our patients to be aware of these warning signs and seek professional advice if any of these symptoms persist. We are always here to support you in your journey toward a healthy mouth and a healthy life.

Prevention Tips: How to Reduce Your Risk of Mouth Cancer

While not all cases of mouth cancer can be prevented, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk. Inspired Dental Care Exeter provides the following recommendations to help prevent mouth cancer:

1. Stop Smoking or Using Tobacco Products

Smoking is the leading risk factor for mouth cancer. It’s also linked to many other forms of cancer, including lung, throat, and esophageal cancers. Smokeless tobacco and e-cigarettes can also increase the risk. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your oral health.

2. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for mouth cancer, especially when combined with smoking. The risk is amplified when someone both smokes and drinks heavily. Cutting back on alcohol can lower your chances of developing mouth cancer.

3. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily and visiting your dentist regularly for oral health assessments can help detect early signs of mouth cancer. Your dentist can identify any abnormalities early on and refer you for further testing if necessary.

4. Protect Your Lips from Sun Exposure

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can increase the risk of lip cancer. Use lip balms with SPF protection and wear hats or other protective gear when in the sun for prolonged periods.

5. Eat a Balanced Diet

A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help boost the immune system and reduce your risk of various cancers, including mouth cancer. Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, citrus fruits, and leafy greens, are particularly beneficial for oral health.

6. Regular Dental Oral Health Assessments

Regular visits to your dentist are essential for maintaining oral health and for detecting any early signs of mouth cancer. Dentists are trained to spot potential warning signs and can refer you to a specialist for further investigation if needed.

Inspired Dental Care emphasises the importance of routine oral health assessments. We ensure that all our patients receive thorough oral health assessments and are educated on how to detect early signs of mouth cancer. We believe that regular visits to the dentist can be a key step in preventing serious health issues, including mouth cancer.

Key Statistics on Mouth Cancer

• Mouth cancer is the 15^th most common cancer in the UK, affecting more than 8,000 people each year.
• Men are twice as likely as women to develop mouth cancer.
• The five-year survival rate for mouth cancer is around 50% if diagnosed at a late stage, but it increases to over 90% when detected early.
• Smoking and drinking are responsible for around 75% of all mouth cancer cases.
• People who are HPV-positive (Human Papillomavirus) are also at an increased risk of developing cancers of the mouth and throat.

At Inspired Dental Care, we are committed to raising awareness of mouth cancer through education and early intervention. By understanding the statistics, you can take the necessary steps to reduce your risk and stay vigilant about potential symptoms.

Mouth Cancer Action Month is a time for everyone to reflect on the importance of oral health and take steps to reduce the risk of mouth cancer. By staying aware of the signs and symptoms, adopting healthy habits, and scheduling regular dental oral health assessments, you can help ensure early detection and improve the chances of successful treatment. Inspired Dental Care in Exeter is committed to raising awareness of mouth cancer and providing the necessary support to help you maintain a healthy mouth and lifestyle.

Remember: Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. If you notice any of the signs mentioned, seek professional advice as soon as possible. Early detection saves lives. At Inspired Dental Care Exeter, we are here to support you in maintaining your oral health, detecting any potential issues early, and guiding you on your journey to a healthier future.