It’s always good to be aware of the signs and symptoms our bodies use to tell us something needs to be checked out. Vhi Chief Dental Officer, Dr Gina Kilfeather, explains oral symptoms that could be linked to mouth cancer and what steps we can take to keep our mouths healthy.

Mouth cancer is caused by an excessive growth of cells that cause damage to surrounding tissues. Early detection greatly improves a person’s outcomes, so it’s important to practice good oral hygiene and pay attention to any irregular symptoms. Mouth or oral cancers can affect the areas of mouth such as the lips, tongue, cheeks, the roof of the mouth, throat. More than 700 cases of mouth cancer are reported in Ireland annually with about 50% diagnosed at an early stage. Late detection can result in needing more complex treatment, which can have a greater impact on quality of life and chances of recovery.

Some signs of mouth cancer may include:

• Sores or ulcers in your mouth that do not heal
• White or red patches inside your mouth that don’t go away
• Lasting discomfort or pain in your mouth
• A lump in your mouth or neck
• Difficulty or pain with chewing and swallowing
• Unexplained loose teeth
• Hoarseness

Remember, having any of these symptoms does not mean you have mouth cancer, but you should visit your dentist for peace of mind and treatment for your symptoms. 

Here are some simple ways you can keep your mouth healthy:

• Visit your dentist regularly: This also applies if you wear dentures. As part of your routine dental exam, your dentist will check for any signs of oral cancer.
• Do self-exams when brushing: Look for any changes in your mouth each morning or night as part of your routine.
• Limit sun exposure: When out in the sun, make sure to use sun protection on your lips as well as your skin.
• Eat plenty of fruit and veg: A diet rich in Vitamins A, C and E helps your body to protect itself from most cancers.
• Be aware of the risk factors for mouth cancer: Risk factors include smoking tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption (using tobacco and alcohol together greatly increases your risk), excessive exposure to sunlight or radiation, chewing tobaccos, a diet lacking in fruit and vegetables, and viral infections (e.g. human papillomavirus – HVP).

Remember, changes in your mouth, gums and teeth can happen for several reasons, so it’s best to check in with your healthcare provider. Your dentist can also take a look for peace of mind. My tips above are a great way to keep your oral health in check, and you can find more in-depth information in my blog, ‘5 ways to improve your oral health routine’.

This content is for information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from your GP or an appropriate medical professional if you have concerns about your health, or before commencing a new healthcare regime. If you believe that you are experiencing a medical emergency call 999 / 112 or seek emergency assistance immediately.