Mouth Cancer
A dental check up is not just limited to checking the health of your teeth. When you visit your dentist, they will check your cheeks, tongue and the rest of the mouth as part of your dental check up, to spot any early signs of oral cancer.
The most common signs of the disease are ulcers, sores, or red and white patches in the mouth that last longer than three weeks, together with unexplained pain in the mouth or ear.
Diet and oral cancer
The primary risk factors for mouth cancer are smoking and a heavy intake of alcohol. Research shows that at least three out of four cases could have been prevented by quitting smoking and drinking less alcohol.
However diet is also an important factor and a good diet, rich in fruit and vegetables can reduce the chances of getting the disease. It is however worth bearing in mind that while smoking, alcohol intake and poor diet are risk factors for oral cancer, the disease can occur in those who don't drink, or smoke and have a healthy diet.
Cancer Research UK has reported that mouth cancer affects around 4,900 people every year in the UK. It is more common in men than women, with the majority of cases occurring in people aged over 50. However more recent reports have shown that a large number of oral cancer cases are now being diagnosed in those of a younger age group. Oral cancer is currently being diagnosed and treated in patients aged 40.
It is estimated that nearly 100 people in Oxfordshire will be diagnosed with oral cancer every year. They often require extensive restorative dental treatment after their cancer therapy.
For further information on mouth cancer please visit:
• www.mouthcancer.org