November is Mouth Cancer Action Month – Remove the Doubt, Get Checked Out!

November is Mouth Cancer Action Month, a nationwide awareness campaign organised by the Oral Health Foundation to highlight the importance of recognising the early signs of mouth cancer and seeking professional advice when something doesn't seem right.

At City Dental Practice in Bangor, we're proud to support this important initiative. Throughout November, and in the lead-up to Blue Wednesday on 18th November, we'll be sharing useful information to help people recognise potential warning signs and understand why early detection can save lives.

What Are the Warning Signs of Mouth Cancer?

Mouth cancer can affect anyone, and recognising changes in your mouth is an important part of looking after your health. Some of the warning signs to be aware of include:

1. Mouth ulcers that do not heal within three weeks.
2. Unexplained lumps or swellings in the mouth, jaw or neck.
3. Persistent red or white patches inside the mouth.
4. Unexplained pain, numbness or difficulty swallowing.
5. Changes to your voice or persistent hoarseness.

These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have mouth cancer, but they should never be ignored. If you notice anything unusual or persistent, arrange an appointment with your dentist or GP.

Where Should You Check?

Regularly checking your mouth is simple and takes just a few minutes. Using a mirror and good lighting, look carefully at your lips, gums, tongue (including underneath and along the sides), the inside of your cheeks, and the roof and floor of your mouth. Also check for unusual lumps or swelling around your jaw and neck.

Getting to know what is normal for your mouth makes it easier to recognise changes that may need investigating.

Why Early Detection Matters

When mouth cancer is detected at an early stage, treatment is generally more successful. Unfortunately, some cases are diagnosed later because early symptoms can be painless or easily mistaken for less serious conditions.

Regular dental examinations are important because your dentist checks more than just your teeth. They also examine the soft tissues of your mouth for signs of abnormalities that may require further investigation.

Remember the campaign's important message: "Remove the Doubt, Get Checked Out!"

Supporting Mouth Cancer Action Month

We would like to thank the Oral Health Foundation for its continued work raising awareness of mouth cancer, and particularly the brave individuals who have shared their personal experiences to help others recognise the warning signs and seek advice sooner.

Throughout the campaign, City Dental Practice will be sharing further information and advice across our social media channels. We encourage everyone to help spread the message, particularly in the lead-up to Blue Wednesday on 18th November.

For more information about mouth cancer, its symptoms, risk factors and prevention, please visit www.mouthcancer.org.

Concerned about a change in your mouth? Don't wait for your next routine check-up. Contact City Dental Practice on 01248 370054 to arrange an appointment.

City Dental Practice
21 High Street, Bangor, North Wales.