Mouth Cancer Action Month starts at the beginning of November and it’s to raise awareness of the increasing number of people being diagnosed with mouth cancer every year. In the last year 6,767 people have been diagnosed with mouth cancer, more than a third compared to a decade ago.

What can cause mouth cancer?

Cases of mouth cancer are most likely to be linked to tobacco and alcohol. Alcohol increases the risk of mouth cancer, and if tobacco and alcohol are consumed together the risk is even higher.

Recent reports have also linked mouth cancer to the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the major cause of cervical cancer and affects the skin that lines the moist areas of the body. HPV can be spread through oral sex, and research now suggests that it could soon rival smoking and drinking as one of the main causes of mouth cancer.

What are the signs of mouth cancer?

Mouth cancer can appear as a painless mouth ulcer that doesn’t heal normally, usually ulcers heal within 2 weeks. A white or red patch in the mouth can also develop into cancer, as can any unusual lumps or swellings.

It is important to visit your dentist if these areas do not heal within a few weeks.

How can mouth cancer be detected early?

A dental examine the dentist checks inside of your mouth and your tongue with the help of a small mirror. Remember, your dentist is able to see parts of your mouth that you cannot see easily yourself. If mouth cancer is recognised early, then the chances of a cure are good. Many people with mouth cancer go to their dentist or doctor too late.

If your dentist finds something unusual they will refer you to a consultant at the local hospital, who will carry out a thorough examination of your mouth and throat. A small sample of the cells may be gathered from the area (a biopsy), and these cells will be examined under the microscope to see what is wrong.

If mouth cancer is spotted early, the chances of a complete cure are good, and the smaller the area or ulcer the better the chance of a cure.

How can I keep my mouth healthy?

It is important to visit your dentist regularly, as often as they recommend, even if you wear dentures. This is especially important if you smoke and drink alcohol.

Keep an eye out for what’s happening in your mouth, see a dentist quickly if you have any ulcers that don’t heal and visit a dentist regularly.

Eat a diet of plenty of fruit and vegetables to help the body to protect itself and cut down on your smoking and drinking.

Bleeding gums can be quite alarming and it’s important that you don’t ignore it. Sometimes it can be a temporary occurrence and other times it may be something of greater concern.

There are several different causes of bleeding gums. Two of the most common are:

• Gingivitis
  
• Pregnancy Gingivitis

Gingivitis
Inflammation of the gums is called gingivitis. It is the initial stage of gum disease and you’ll be relieved to know that it’s the easiest to treat. However, early treatment is essential.

The direct cause of gingivitis is the plaque in your mouth – the soft, sticky, colourless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. Classic signs and symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, tender gums that may bleed when you brush. Some people may experience a foul taste or bad breath, which is caused because small pockets begin to form between the teeth and gums, where plaque and food debris collect.

What happens if you don’t treat Gingivitis?
When gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. In a person with periodontitis, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and form larger pockets. These small spaces between the teeth and gums collect debris and can become infected, eventually leading to teeth becoming loose and possibly falling out.

Pregnancy Gingivitis
Four in ten pregnant women will experience swollen, red, tender gums that bleed when flossed or brushed at least once during pregnancy. Your gums are more likely to become inflamed during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that make them more sensitive to the bacteria in plaque.

It’s imperative to keep your teeth and gums as clean and healthy as possible whilst pregnant. The best way to prevent or deal with gum problems is to practise good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly.

Prevention is better than cure
Brushing twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once daily is the best way to ensure your gums won’t bleed. Gums can sometimes stop bleeding with regular flossing and good toothbrushing.

And of course, don’t forget to see your dentist on a regular basis – not just when you have a problem or concern. It really is the best way to keep your mouth healthy and in the best possible shape.

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