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Mouth Cancer

Mouth cancer (also known as oral cancer) is when a cancerous tumour develops across any parts that make up the mouth, including:

  • The cheek lining and inside of the lip.
  • The floor of the mouth and undersurface of the tongue.
  • The edges of the tongue.
  • The gum, including the triangular area of the gum behind your teeth.

How do I know if I have mouth cancer?

The following symptoms could indicate the presence of mouth cancer, and you should make an appointment with us right away if you notice these, rather than wait until your next routine check up:

  • A lump or sore in your mouth or on your lip that doesn’t go away within two weeks.
  • An ulcer that doesn’t appear to be healing.
  • Enlarged lymph nodes or lump in your neck.
  • Persistent pain in your mouth.
  • Pain and difficulty chewing and swallowing.
  • Unexplained bleeding in your mouth.
  • Poor jaw mobility.
  • A sore throat that doesn’t appear to be resolving itself.
  • Red or red and white patches across any part of the mouth, including the tongue.
  • Persistent numbness of your lip or any other part of the mouth.
  • Loose teeth or dentures.
  • Difficulties with your speech – these include it becoming hoarse, slurred or quieter than normal.
  • Ear pain.
  • Unexplained weight loss.

We will always check for these signs during your routine dental examinations.

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How is mouth cancer diagnosed?

If we identify any of the symptoms listed above during a routine check up appointment, or you have come to see us because you are concerned you are displaying one or more of these, we will discuss this with you and ask you about your medical history. We will carry out a thorough examination of your mouth, face and neck for any swellings.

If we identify any of the symptoms listed above, we will discuss this with you and urgently refer you to the hospital.

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How is mouth cancer treated?

When detected early, 9 out of 10 cases can be successfully cured with surgery alone. With this in mind, it’s paramount that you come along for routine dental examinations, or make an appointment if you notice concerning symptoms, so that any problems can be caught and cured as soon as possible.

Other means of treating mouth cancer include radiotherapy and chemotherapy. These are used when the cancer has reached an advanced stage and surgery alone is no longer possible.

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How can I prevent mouth cancer?

You can reduce your risk of developing mouth cancer by:

  • Refraining from smoking or quitting smoking if you smoke.
  • Stick to the recommended government guidelines for alcohol consumption.
  • Avoid excessive sun exposure to your lips.
  • Attending routine dental examinations.
  • Follow a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

If you are struggling to cultivate good oral health habits, we can help you by putting you in touch with professional services that can support you with quitting smoking and reducing your alcohol intake. Just remember, you’re not alone.

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