Mouth cancer is something that does not get talked about as much as other forms of cancer – but it is more common than many people realise, and cases have been rising steadily over the past two decades. The good news is that, like many cancers, mouth cancer is highly treatable when it is caught early. That is where regular dental check-ups and mouth cancer screening play a vital role.
At Love-Teeth in Prestwich, we include a thorough mouth cancer check as part of every routine examination. Here is what you need to know.
What Is Mouth Cancer?
Mouth cancer – also known as oral cancer – can develop in any of the soft tissues of the mouth and throat. This includes the tongue, lips, cheeks, the floor of the mouth, the roof of the mouth, and the back of the throat. It can also affect the salivary glands and tonsils.
The most common signs include a sore or ulcer that does not heal within two to three weeks, a red or white patch inside the mouth, unexplained swelling or a lump in the mouth or neck, and persistent difficulty swallowing or speaking.
Many of these signs can have innocent explanations – an ulcer caused by biting your cheek, for instance. But when symptoms do not resolve on their own within a few weeks, they should be investigated. If you notice anything of concern between appointments, please do not wait for your next routine visit. Get in touch with us and we will see you promptly.
Who Is at Risk of Mouth Cancer?
Anyone can develop mouth cancer, but certain factors are associated with a higher risk. Tobacco use – whether smoking or chewing tobacco – is the single biggest risk factor. Drinking alcohol regularly, particularly in combination with smoking, significantly increases the risk further.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) has also been identified as a growing cause of mouth and throat cancers, particularly in younger adults who may not have traditional risk factors such as smoking or heavy drinking. This is one of the reasons mouth cancer is no longer seen only as a condition affecting older patients.
Prolonged sun exposure on the lips and a diet low in fruit and vegetables are also associated with an increased risk.
Importantly, around a third of mouth cancer cases occur in people with no clear risk factors at all – which is why regular screening matters for everybody, regardless of age or lifestyle.
What Does Mouth Cancer Screening at Love-Teeth Involve?
At Love-Teeth, mouth cancer screening is a quick, painless check that forms part of your routine dental examination. There is no special preparation required and nothing to feel anxious about.
During the check, your dentist will carefully examine the inside of your mouth – including the tongue, gums, cheeks, the roof and floor of the mouth, and the lips. We also check the neck for any signs of swelling or unusual change. The whole process takes just a few minutes and you will barely notice it is happening.
If anything is found that gives us cause to look more closely, we will explain what we have seen clearly and calmly, and discuss the appropriate next steps together. This might mean simply monitoring an area over a short period, or referring you to a specialist for further assessment if that seems the right course of action.
Catching any changes early – when they are small and have not spread – makes treatment significantly more effective. That is why keeping up with regular check-ups is so important, even when you feel completely well.
Book Your Check-Up at Love-Teeth Prestwich
For patients on our Adults Plan, regular dental health exams are included as part of your monthly membership, starting from just £12.75 per month. The plan is administered by DPAS Limited and includes check-ups, hygiene visits, X-rays, a 20% treatment discount, and emergency cover. Children of Adults Plan members also receive two free dental health exams per year.
If it has been a while since your last check-up, or if you have noticed any changes in your mouth that concern you, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We offer a free consultation for new patients – a relaxed, no-commitment chat with one of our team about your oral health.
We are rated 4.9 stars by our patients and offer a warm, unhurried appointment experience at our practice in the heart of Prestwich, with parking available nearby.
Book your check-up or free consultation today at https://loveteethdp.co.uk/contact/