Mouth Cancer Action Month

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The team at Maidstone Dental & Implant Centre are pleased to be supporting this year’s Mouth Cancer Action Month. Whenever you visit one of our dentists for a routine examination, they will also perform an examination for mouth cancer.

Mouth cancer is one of the few cancers in the UK which has seen cases rise, over the past decade there has been an increase of over 50% in the number of people being diagnosed with mouth cancer.

Oral health checks and visual examinations are the best way to identify any suspicious lesions. Another great reason to ensure you book in for your routine dental appointment.

  • Your appointment

When you come in for your appointment the dentist will ask you a number of lifestyle questions. If you smoke, drink more than the recommended amount of alcohol per week, are over 50 or use chewing or smokeless tobacco these factors can increase your risk of developing mouth cancer.

2021_11_03_blog_image_002The dentist will then perform a methodical examination of your mouth to detect any abnormalities.  They will use a mirror to check all the tissue in your mouth including your tongue and the sides of your mouth.

If the dentist finds anything that is unusual or abnormal they will refer you to the local hospital for a specialist to perform a thorough examination of your mouth and throat. They may take a biopsy of any affected areas, so the cells can be looked at closely under a microscope.

If mouth cancer is spotted early the chances of a complete cure are very good and the smaller the area or ulcer the better the chance of a cure. However too many people do not visit their dentist for routine dental appointment so often any problems are noticed too late.

2021_11_03_blog_image_003Top tips to ensure that your mouth stays healthy

  • Visit your dentist for regular appointments so that any problems can be identified early and treated quickly.
  • When brushing your teeth look out for any red or white patches or ulcers that do not clear up within three weeks
  • Ensure you have a full a varied diet, rich in vitamins.
  • Cut down on the amount you smoke and drink
  • When out in the sun be sure to use a high factor sun cream on your face and neck and a barrier cream on your lips.

2021_11_03_blog_image_004If you are concerned about any changes in your mouth or would like advice on reducing your risk of developing mouth cancer call Maidstone Dental & Implant Centre on 01622 682 029 to book an appointment today.

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