Every November, Mouth Cancer Action Month reminds us just how vital oral health is to our overall wellbeing. At Seaham Smiles Dental Surgery, we are proud to support this important campaign and to raise awareness of the risks, symptoms, and prevention of mouth cancer.

Early detection can make a life-saving difference, which is why regular check-ups with your trusted dentist in Seaham are essential.

Understanding Mouth Cancer

Mouth cancer can appear in several areas, including the tongue, tonsils, gums, and inside of the cheeks. The statistics are sobering: new cases of mouth cancer in the UK reached 10,825 last year, an increase of 38% in the last decade and a staggering 133% over the past 20 years. Sadly, more than 3,600 people lost their lives to the disease last year alone.

Despite these alarming numbers, awareness remains low. Nationally, only 8% of people recognise the major risk factors for mouth cancer. This lack of knowledge means that many cases are not diagnosed until later stages when treatment is more complex.

Causes and Risk Factors

Experts still do not know what causes most mouth cancers, but up to 90% are linked to lifestyle factors. The good news is that by making small but meaningful changes, we can reduce our risk significantly.

Two of the biggest steps you can take are to stop smoking and reduce alcohol intake. Smoking increases your risk of mouth cancer by up to ten times compared to non-smokers, and more than 60% of mouth cancers are linked to smoking. Drinking excessively adds to the danger, contributing to nearly a third of all cases. When smoking and drinking are combined, the risk of mouth cancer triples.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Regular self-checks and professional dental visits can help spot early signs. Remember, if in doubt, get checked out! Some of the common symptoms to look for include:

• Persistent mouth ulcers that don’t heal within three weeks
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Unusual lumps, bumps, or swellings

A simple mouth cancer check takes just 45 seconds but could be life-saving.

The Role of Regular Dental Visits

At Seaham Smiles Dental Surgery, we encourage every patient to stay on top of their oral health. If it’s been more than 12 months since your last dental visit, now is the perfect time to book an appointment. During your examination, we’ll look for early warning signs of oral health problems, including mouth cancer.

The earlier a problem is caught, the easier it is to treat. This is true for both mouth cancer and other dental concerns such as stages of gum disease. Even mild gum issues, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications like tooth loss and infections that may affect your overall health.

That’s why consistent gum care and professional check-ups are so important. Our team at Seaham Smiles Dental Surgery takes a preventive approach to dental health, helping you maintain healthy gums and teeth while watching out for anything unusual.

How You Can Protect Yourself

Here are some practical steps you can take today to lower your risk and protect your oral health:

• Quit smoking – Seek professional support if needed; even small reductions make a difference.
• Limit alcohol consumption – Keep within recommended guidelines and avoid binge drinking.
• Eat a balanced diet – Fresh fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants that help protect cells.
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene – Brush twice daily, floss, and use mouthwash as directed.
• Attend regular dental check-ups – Don’t wait for problems to appear before visiting your dentist in Seaham.
• Perform self-checks – Look for any unusual changes in your mouth, tongue, or throat.

Spreading Awareness

Mouth Cancer Action Month is organised by the Oral Health Foundation, which offers valuable resources, guidance, and statistics to help people stay informed. By learning about the risk factors and symptoms, and sharing this knowledge with family and friends, we can all play a part in saving lives.

At Seaham Smiles Dental Surgery, our mission is to keep our community healthy through prevention, education, and compassionate care. If you notice any changes in your mouth, or if it’s been over a year since your last check-up, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can make a difference — one smile at a time.