Publish date: 3 November 2021
As part of Mouth Cancer Action Month, Paula Darkin, mouthcare lead dental nurse and trainer for the trust, lets us know more
The message this year is: ‘IF IN DOUBT – GET IT CHECKED OUT!’
What is Mouth Cancer?
Mouth Cancer can appear anywhere in the mouth, including the inside of the cheeks and gums. It can also affect the neck and throat.
Who can be affected by mouth cancer?
Anyone can be affected by mouth cancer. Mouth cancer is a disease that affects all genders of any age. Because there is a link between time of detection and prognosis it’s really important that you report any symptoms early. There are, on average, almost 7,800 new cases of mouth cancer diagnosed in the UK each year.
How can mouth cancer be detected early?
It’s very important you routinely visit your dentist. Your dental team will check for oral cancer on your routine examination. If you don’t have any teeth, you may wonder if you still need to see your dentist. The answer is yes, you do. At the examination appointment the dental team will be looking at your denture or implants and also screening for mouth cancer.
Is there anything I can do at home?
We should all regularly check the inside of our mouths for any lumps, bumps, red or white patches, sores or ulcers. You can’t always feel these problems/they aren’t always obvious.
When was the last time you checked your mouth?