mydentist, the largest provider of NHS dentistry in the UK, is urging people to register for NHS dental treatment to mark the beginning of Mouth Cancer Action Month, which aims to increase awareness of the disease.
Mouth cancer is one of the UK’s fastest increasing cancers, with cases up by almost 40 per cent in the last decade and 70 per cent of cases diagnosed in men.
Nyree Whitley, mydentist clinical director said: “It’s not all bad news, by making sure patients have regular check-ups we can diagnose more mouth cancers at an early stage. Early treatment drastically increases the chances of beating the disease, as this prevents the cancer from developing.”
Organised by the British Dental Health Foundation, Mouth Cancer Action Month runs throughout November.
mydentist has over 650 practices across the UK that offer the full range of NHS and private treatments.
For more information or to book an appointment with your nearest mydentist visit www.mydentist.co.uk.
About oral cancer:
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is where a tumour develops on the tongue, floor of the mouth, lips or gums.
Tumours can also occur in the salivary glands, tonsils and the pharynx (the part of the throat from your mouth to your windpipe) but these are less common.
Symptoms can include:
- red or white patches on the lining of your mouth or tongue
- ulcers
- a lump
Risk factors for developing mouth cancer include:
- smoking or using products that contain tobacco
- drinking alcohol – smokers who are also heavy drinkers have a much higher risk compared to the population at large
- infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV), the virus that causes genital warts