Mouth Cancer Action Month with Dentexcel Raising Awareness in London

Your mouth can reveal the first signs of a life-threatening disease, recognising them early can save lives. Every November, Mouth Cancer Action Month raises vital awareness about the importance of early detection and regular dental check-ups. 

Organised by the Oral Health Foundation, this nationwide campaign highlights the growing concern of mouth cancer in the UK and educates the public about prevention, symptoms, and early diagnosis. At Dentexcel, your trusted dentist in Harley Street, London, we actively support this initiative and remain committed to promoting better oral health through awareness and prevention.

The Alarming Rise of Mouth Cancer in the UK

The latest statistics are sobering. New cases of mouth cancer in the UK have reached over 10,800 a year, an increase of 38% in the last decade and 133% compared with 20 years ago. Sadly, more than 3,600 people lost their lives to mouth cancer last year alone. The ten-year survival rate ranges between 18% and 57%, depending on how early the cancer is detected. These figures underscore why awareness and regular dental check-ups are so essential.

Understanding the Causes of Mouth Cancers

The experts do not yet fully understand what causes all mouth cancers. However, studies show that up to 90% of cases are linked to lifestyle factors. The most significant causes of mouth cancers include:

• Smoking – Smokers are up to ten times more likely to develop mouth cancer than non-smokers.
• Excessive alcohol consumption – Alcohol is linked to nearly one-third of all mouth cancer cases.
• Combined smoking and drinking – Doing both multiplies the risk, making it three times higher than either habit alone.

The good news is that by making small but meaningful lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, cutting down on alcohol, and maintaining good oral hygiene, we can significantly reduce our risk.

Recognising the Warning Signs

Awareness is not only about prevention but also about early detection. Common warning signs of mouth cancer include:

• Long-lasting mouth ulcers
• Red or white patches inside the mouth
• Unusual lumps, bumps, or swellings

A simple self-check takes just 45 seconds and can be life-saving. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s vital to contact your dentist immediately.

The Importance of Preventive Dentistry

At Dentexcel, we believe that preventive dentistry is the cornerstone of good oral health. Regular check-ups allow our dental professionals to spot early signs of potential problems, including mouth cancer, before they become serious. If it has been more than 12 months since your last visit, now is the time to schedule your appointment. The earlier we detect any abnormalities, the better your chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Take Action for Your Oral Health

National awareness of the risk factors for mouth cancer remains alarmingly low, just 8% of people can identify the major causes. Together, we can change that. By learning about the signs, symptoms, and causes of mouth cancers, and by encouraging friends and family to get checked, we can help save lives.

At Dentexcel, your dentist in Harley Street, London, we are proud to support Mouth Cancer Action Month and continue to educate our patients about prevention and early detection. Our goal is simple: to ensure that everyone understands the importance of regular dental visits and the potentially life-saving impact of being informed. Your mouth can tell you a lot about your health, listening to it could save your life.