Mouth Cancer is the general term given to the variety of malignant tumours that develop in the mouth.
We screen for different types of head and neck cancer during your assessment with us, i.e. throat (pharynx), voicebox (larynx), salivary glands, nose, sinuses, lips and skin.
Studies show that mouth cancer is on the increase and that early detection dramatically improves the chances of recovery.
Symptoms include:
- An ulcer or white or red patch anywhere in the mouth that does not heal within 3 weeks.
- A lump or swelling anywhere in the mouth, jaw or neck that persists for more than 3 weeks.
- Difficulty swallowing, chewing or moving the jaw or tongue.
- Numbness of tongue or other area of the mouth.
- A feeling that something is caught in the throat.
- A chronic sore throat or hoarseness that persists more than 6 weeks.
- Unexplained loosening of teeth.
Risk Factors:
- Tobacco use is the main cause of mouth cancer.
- Drinking alcohol to excess can increase risks four-fold.
- Drinking and smoking together can make mouth cancer up to 30 times more likely to develop.
- Poor diet and social deprivation is linked to a third of all cancer cases.
- The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), could overtake tobacco and alcohol as the main risk factor within the next decade.
- Exposure to the sun is a cause of skin cancer which can affect the lips and face.
Here is how we will assess you for mouth cancer:
- We analyse your oral health history to determine any risk factors that you might have.
- Perform a thorough examination of the outside of your mouth, head and neck by observation and touch.
- Perform a thorough internal examination of your mouth, including the inside of your cheeks and under your tongue.
- Any inconclusive findings will be referred to a specialist.
If you have any sores, lumps or long-term ulcers in your mouth, no matter how small, it is very important that you come in to have it looked at. An excellent source of information is the Mouth Cancer Foundation if you require any further information.
To raise awareness of the risk factors of mouth cancer, and to encourage awareness of the signs and symptoms, we participate in Mouth Cancer Action Month every year. We are passionate about preventative dentistry and would encourage patients to see us if they ever have concerns about their oral health.