Oral Cancer Action Month 2014

Do you know that cancer can occur in the mouth?

 Any one can be affected by the Oral Cancer, whether they have their own teeth or not.

 Over 1,900 people in the UK die from Oral Cancer every year, many of these deaths could be prevented if caught early enough.

 So let’s have a look at Oral Cancer.

 What is Oral Cancer?

 It is a cancer that can develop in any part of the mouth, including the tongue, the gums, the palate (roof of the mouth), under the tongue, the skin lining the mouth or the lips and the throat.

 What can cause Oral Cancer?

 Most cases of Oral Cancer are linked to tobacco and alcohol. Use of the Cigarette, Cigar, and pipe smoking are the main use of the tobacco in the UK. The habit of the chewing tobacco, betel quid, gutkha, paan are very dangerous.

 Excess alcohol increases the risk of Oral Cancer, and if tobacco and alcohol are consumed together, the risk will be even higher.

 Many recent researches have linked Oral Cancer to HPV (human papillomavirus). HPV is the major cause of the cervical cancer and affects the skin that lines the moist areas of the body. Research now suggests that it could soon rival smoking and drinking as one of the main cause of the Oral Cancer.

 What are the signs of the Oral Cancer?

 It can appear as different forms and can affect all parts of the mouth, tongue and lips.

 It often appears a painless mouth ulcer that doesn’t heal within 3 weeks.

 A white or red patch in the mouth can also develop into Oral Cancer.

 If you have concerns about these, it will be best to book an appointment with your dentist, who will carry out a thorough examination of your mouth and throat.

 At Crook Log Dental Practice, your dentist carries out a cancer screening on every exam appointment.

 How do I make sure my mouth stay healthy?

 Regular visit to your dentist, a good oral hygiene routine, that is twice daily good brushing, interdentally cleaning & tongue cleaning.

 And a well balanced diet, rich in vitamins A, C and E, plenty of fruits and vegetables.

 And last but not least, quit smoking and cut down on drinking!