Mouth Cancer Action Month 2023

What causes it?

There a number of risk factors that can increase your chances of getting mouth cancer.

• Smoking tobacco is the main cause, and drinking alcohol increases the risks four-fold
• Drinking and smoking together can make it up to 30 times more likely to develop
• Exposure to the sun is a cause of skin cancer which can affect the lips and face

The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), transmitted through oral sex, could overtake tobacco and alcohol as the main risk factor within the next decade. The HPV vaccination is the best way to prevent HPV-related mouth cancers and we encourage parents to make sure their child (ideally aged 12-13) is vaccinated. To find out whether you’re at higher risk from HPV and how to get the HPV vaccine visit the NHS website. 

What are the signs?

Mouth cancer can appear in different forms and can affect all parts of the mouth. There a number of signs to look out for, these are:

• An ulcer, or white or red patches in your mouth that don’t heal normally
• Unusual lumps or swelling in your mouth, jaw or neck
• Difficulty swallowing, chewing or moving the jaw or tongue
• Numbness of your tongue or other area of the mouth
• A feeling that something is caught in the throat
• A persistent hoarse voice or chronic sore throat
• Unexplained loosening of teeth

It is important to visit your dental team or doctor if you experience any of these for more than three weeks. If you aren’t sure, book an appointment anyway. 

How can it be diagnosed early?

Mouth cancer can often be found early by your dental team during thorough mouth examinations, as part of your regular dental health examinations.  If it is diagnosed early, then the chances of a cure are significantly increased. Many people with mouth cancer leave it too late to see their dentist or doctor, or don’t have regular dental health examinations. It is important to keep an eye out for anything that doesn't look or feel right. There is probably nothing seriously wrong, but an early diagnosis could save your life.

How do I keep my mouth healthy?

• If you smoke, try and stop. Cut down on the amount of alcohol you drink. And, ensure you eat a balanced, healthy diet with at least five portions of fruit and/or vegetables a day
• Maintain good oral health by brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, and clean in between teeth by flossing or using interdental brushes
• Visit your hygienist and have regular dental health examinations with your dentist too

Remember, dental health examinations are really important and they're much more than just a check-up. As well as examining your teeth and gums, your dentist will be checking for signs of mouth cancer too.