A dentist has revealed the symptoms of mouth cancer to look out for that could go easily missed.
There are about 530 cases of oral cancer diagnosed per year in Scotland and according to Scottish Dental, this is twice the rate found in England and Wales. Wider UK figures indicate that 8,846 people are diagnosed with it annually – nearly one person an hour.
As Mouth Cancer Awareness Month falls in November, Dr Parneet Sehmi, principal dentist at Hermes London Dental Clinic, is sharing the four warning signs to look out for. These include mouth ulcers that don’t heal, coloured patches, lumps and voice changes and the expert has also explained how to do a quick-self check at home.
As reported by Wales Online, he warned: “Mouth cancer can affect anyone and as a disease, it can present itself in a number of different ways. That is why I am urging people to know about the signs and symptoms, as the sooner it is spotted, the higher the chance there is of beating this devastating disease.”
“People must have regular dental visits and ensure they are doing self-checks at home. If you do notice anything unusual in or around your mouth, head, and neck, it is vital you book a dentist appointment and get it checked as soon as possible.”
Here are the four main symptoms of mouth cancer to be aware of and how to check for them.
1. A mouth ulcer that doesn’t heal in three weeks
Mouth cancer can start in different parts of the mouth, including the lips, salivary glands, tongue, gums, palate, and inside of the cheeks, and can be subtle to begin with. One of the most common symptoms is a mouth ulcer which does not heal within three weeks, which may appear as a painful sore or lesion within the mouth.
Dr Sehmi advised: “It can be easy to confuse an ulcer with other illness-related reasons but if you notice it hasn’t healed within three weeks, I recommend getting it checked by either your dentist or GP – especially if you regularly smoke or drink alcohol.”
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2. Unusual lumps or swellings in the mouth, head, or neck
Up to 51 per cent of people do not realise that unexpected lumps or swellings in the mouth, head, and neck can be a symptom of mouth cancer, research shows. The lumps can vary in size and may or may not be painful.
As it could be the result of various causes, a professional evaluation is essential to rule out mouth cancer and start appropriate treatment.
3. White or red patches in the mouth
White or red patches in the mouth are areas of abnormal tissue that can develop inside the mouth. These patches may vary in size and texture, and while not all are cancerous, some can be early indicators of mouth cancer.
Dr Sehmi recommends consulting a dentist if you notice these patches, as they could be a result of various factors.
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4. Persistent ‘hoarseness’ and changes in speech
If you have noticed a persistent change in the tone and quality of your voice for more than three weeks, or are having difficulty speaking or swallowing, this should not be ignored. Dr Sehmi advised: “While it could likely be the result of a different illness, such as a cold, it is important to get it checked nonetheless to ensure that it isn’t mouth cancer.”
How to check for mouth cancer
Check you can fully open your mouth without any difficulty, then do a thorough check of your whole mouth, including the tongue as well as the roof and floor of your mouth, gums, and lips. Feel for any new swellings, check for any moles and spots which have grown, become hard, or started to bleed, and if there are any changes to the colour or texture of the skin.
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Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
