Mouth cancer is often linked to lifestyle choices – smoking, chewing or smokeless tobacco, alcohol, poor diet and sexual activity. In the last 10 years, the number of people diagnosed with it has risen by 40%. It is more common in people over 40, particularly men. We have seen the devastating effect mouth cancer can have on someone’s life, such as how we eat, drink, breath and speak.
We want to make sure your are aware of what it is, the risks, what to look out for and the early signs and symptoms:-
- Ulcers which do not heal in 3 weeks
- Red and white patches in the mouth
- Unusual swellings or lumps in the mouth or head and neck area
- Persistent hoarseness in voice
Early diagnosis of mouth cancer transforms survival rates from 50% to 90%, so it is important that you check your mouth regularly for any changes. Mouth cancer can be spotted in its early stages by our team during a thorough dental check up, which is why we recommend a 6 monthly check up.
Measures you can take to make sure your mouth stays healthy include:-
- Stopping smoking
- Cut down on the amount of alcohol you consume
- Eat a balanced healthy diet (at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day)
- Visit your dentist regularly, as often as they recommend
Remember “If in doubt, get it checked out.” Call us on 020 8657 1291 to arrange a thorough check up!
For more information please follow http://www.mouthcancer.org/
You can book an oral cancer screening via our contact page.
