November marks Mouth Cancer Action Month, an annual campaign dedicated to raising awareness of mouth cancer, helping people recognise the early warning signs and encouraging everyone to take their oral health seriously.
While most of us are familiar with the importance of brushing, flossing and regular dental visits, it's easy to overlook the role these habits and appointments play in looking after the overall health of our mouths.
At Mist Dental, we believe prevention and early detection are essential parts of good dental care. As a welcoming, independent dental practice in Harrogate, our team is here to help patients feel informed, comfortable and confident about their oral health.
Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, can develop in different parts of the mouth, including the tongue, gums, lips and inside the cheeks. Although the risk increases with age, it can affect anyone.
One of the most important messages of Mouth Cancer Action Month, organised by the Oral Health Foundation, is to become mouth aware - understanding what's normal for your mouth and recognising when something changes.
According to NHS guidance on mouth cancer symptoms, signs to look out for include:
• Mouth ulcers that haven't healed after three weeks
• Red or white patches inside the mouth
• Unexplained lumps or swellings in the mouth, lips or neck
• Persistent pain or discomfort in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• A hoarse voice that doesn't go away
Experiencing any of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you have mouth cancer, as many can have other causes. However, it's important not to ignore changes that persist.
If you've noticed anything unusual, arrange an appointment with your dentist or GP rather than waiting for your next routine check-up.
Dental examinations are about much more than checking for cavities. They also give your dentist the opportunity to look at the overall health of your mouth, including your gums, tongue, lips and surrounding soft tissues. During a routine examination, dentists can look for unusual changes that may need further investigation, including possible signs of mouth cancer. We will always listen to any concerns you may have and explain what we're looking for during your appointment. We want every patient to feel comfortable asking questions and confident that their oral health is being taken seriously.
If it's been a while since your last visit, November is a good reminder to book a dental check-up with our friendly Harrogate team. Regular examinations can help identify concerns early, even when you haven't noticed any symptoms yourself.
You don't need to be a dental professional to become more aware of changes in your mouth. Taking a little time to check your mouth at home can help you notice anything unusual between dental appointments.
Using a mirror and good lighting, take a look at your lips, gums, tongue, inside your cheeks and the roof of your mouth. Pay attention to any changes in colour, unusual patches, lumps or sores that aren't healing.
The Oral Health Foundation provide useful information about recognising potential warning signs and understanding when to seek advice.
Getting familiar with what's normal for you makes it easier to recognise when something changes. Remember, self-checks don't replace professional dental examinations, and any persistent or concerning symptoms should always be assessed by a dentist or GP.
Although not every case of mouth cancer can be prevented, certain lifestyle factors can increase the risk. Smoking and tobacco use are significant risk factors, while drinking alcohol, particularly in larger amounts, can also increase the likelihood of developing mouth cancer.
The NHS provides advice on the causes and risk factors of mouth cancer, including steps people can take to reduce their risk.
Making positive changes, such as stopping smoking, reducing alcohol consumption and maintaining a balanced diet, can support your general health as well as your oral health. We believe preventative care should be practical and supportive. Our team is always happy to discuss your oral health and help you understand the steps you can take to look after your mouth.
Mouth Cancer Action Month is also an opportunity to think about the wider health of your mouth, including your teeth and gums.
Alongside regular dental examinations, good daily oral hygiene and professional hygiene care can help prevent and manage problems such as gum disease.
We’re pleased to offer professional dental hygiene appointments in Harrogate, giving patients dedicated time for professional cleaning and personalised advice on looking after their teeth and gums. Our 30-minute hygiene appointments will help you improve your brushing routine, manage plaque and tartar build-up and maintain healthier gums.
Hygiene appointments complement regular dental examinations but don't replace them, particularly when it comes to investigating unusual changes or potential signs of mouth cancer.
Contact our team to arrange a hygiene appointment.
Good oral health habits begin early, and helping children become comfortable with dental visits can encourage them to look after their teeth and gums throughout life.
While mouth cancer is much more common in older adults, November is still a valuable opportunity to encourage the whole family to pay attention to their oral health.
At Mist Dental, we're proud to provide NHS dental care for children, helping families in Harrogate access preventative advice, routine examinations and early dental care.
Our friendly team takes time to explain things clearly and create a welcoming environment, helping children build confidence and positive relationships with their dentist.
If you're looking to register your child with a welcoming dental practice in Harrogate, we'd be delighted to welcome your family.
Mouth Cancer Action Month is an important reminder that looking after your mouth goes beyond maintaining healthy teeth. Understanding the warning signs, paying attention to changes and attending regular dental examinations can all make a difference.
Prevention and early detection remain central to the care we provide. Whether you're due for a routine check-up, have a concern you'd like to discuss or are looking for a new dentist in Harrogate, our team is here to help.
Your oral health deserves attention all year round, not just during Mouth Cancer Action Month.
Contact us today to arrange your dental appointment and take an important step towards protecting your oral health through regular care and early detection.
Sherwood Dental Practice
633 - 635 Shirley Road
Hall Green
Birmingham
B28 9JU
0121 777 4455
