Mouth Cancer Awareness Month

Understanding Mouth Cancer: A Guide to Awareness and Prevention

November is Mouth Cancer Action Month, an important time for raising awareness about mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer. At Abbey Mead Dental & Implant Clinic, we are committed to supporting this cause and helping our community understand the risks, symptoms, and ways to protect against mouth cancer. In partnership with the Mouth Cancer Foundation, we are sharing valuable insights to help you stay informed and proactive about oral health.

What is Mouth Cancer?

Mouth cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, roof and floor of the mouth, gums, and tonsils. Although it can affect anyone, risk factors such as tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, exposure to the HPV virus, and poor oral hygiene significantly increase the likelihood of developing the disease. It is a serious but often overlooked health concern, with around 8,300 new cases diagnosed each year in the UK alone.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Early detection is crucial for mouth cancer, as it significantly increases treatment success rates. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:

• Persistent mouth sores or ulcers that do not heal within three weeks
• Unusual lumps or swelling in the mouth, neck, or head area
• Red or white patches inside the mouth
• Numbness or pain in the mouth or tongue
• Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of something caught in the throat

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider or dentist as soon as possible.

Why Early Detection Matters

Mouth cancer can be challenging to diagnose in its early stages, as symptoms are often mistaken for less serious conditions. By the time most cases are diagnosed, cancer may already have spread, making treatment more complex. This highlights the importance of regular dental check-ups, as dentists are trained to spot potential signs of mouth cancer early on. Early diagnosis is key to improving survival rates, and routine dental exams offer the best opportunity to catch it before it progresses.

Preventive Tips for Reducing Your Risk

1. Avoid Tobacco: Both smoking and chewing tobacco are leading causes of mouth cancer, contributing to over half of the cases diagnosed. Quitting tobacco is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk.
2. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol in excess can increase your risk of mouth cancer. Limit alcohol intake to moderate levels and avoid binge drinking for better overall health.
3. Protect Against HPV: HPV is a significant cause of mouth cancer, especially in younger people. Consider the HPV vaccine and stay informed about safe practices.
4. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants, can support your immune system and help protect against various cancers, including mouth cancer.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Dentists play an essential role in early mouth cancer detection. Aim to visit your dentist every six months, even if you feel healthy.
6. Check Your Mouth: Self-examinations are another effective way to catch early signs of mouth cancer. Once a month, take a few minutes to check for any unusual lumps, discolorations, or sores in your mouth. If you notice anything abnormal, reach out to a healthcare provider for an evaluation.

How Abbey Mead Supports Mouth Cancer Awareness

At Abbey Mead Dental & Implant Clinic, we understand that preventive care and early detection are critical in the fight against mouth cancer. Throughout Mouth Cancer Action Month, we’re working to raise awareness and offer educational resources to our patients and community members. Our team is committed to supporting you with regular dental exams, consultations, and information on maintaining good oral health.

Together, we can make a difference in the fight against mouth cancer. Join us this November in recognizing Mouth Cancer Action Month, and let’s help protect our loved ones by spreading awareness, understanding the symptoms, and prioritizing prevention.

For more information about mouth cancer, visit the Mouth Cancer Foundation.