More than 11,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with mouth cancer each year, with cases doubling in the last generation. This November, we’re supporting the Oral Health Foundation’s efforts to help patients learn more about the condition, recognise early signs and better understand how important routine check-ups are for tracking unusual changes.
What Are The Signs Of Mouth Cancer?
Mouth cancer can affect different areas of the mouth, including the tongue, lips, gums and inner cheeks. Early signs aren’t always painful or even that noticeable, so it’s worth knowing what to look out for. Some of the most common symptoms of mouth cancer include:
- Mouth ulcers that don’t heal after three weeks
- Red or white patches inside your mouth
- Unusual lumps or swelling in your mouth, jaw or neck
- Ongoing pain or discomfort in your mouth
- Ongoing difficulty swallowing or speaking
It’s important to note that a lot of these symptoms can have many different causes and do not necessarily mean that you have mouth cancer. So don’t panic. Instead, book a check-up with your local Hull dentist who can examine any persistent or unexplained changes.
How To Self-Check At Home
You don’t need any special equipment to check your mouth at home. A mirror, good lighting and a couple of minutes will suffice!
- Start by looking at your lips, inside your cheeks and around your gums
- Stick out your tongue and check both sides as well as underneath
- Check the roof of your mouth
- Gently feel around your jaw and neck for any unusual lumps
We recommend making this part of your regular routine. If you’re familiar with the normal appearance of your mouth, it will be easier to recognise any changes.
Remove The Doubt, Get Checked Out
Your routine dental check-up isn’t just about spotting cavities. At 543 Dental Centre in Hull, our dentists also examine the soft tissues in your mouth and look for any unusual changes that may need further investigation.
Early detection is THE MOST important defence against mouth cancer, as identifying the condition sooner can improve treatment outcomes. And remember: you don’t need to wait until your next scheduled check-up if you’ve noticed something unusual. We’d be happy to take a look and put your mind at ease.
