"You can check for with nothing more than a mirror and a good light"
Seven in 10 adults have never checked their mouths for potential signs of cancer, prompting a dentist to encourage people to carry out a simple two-minute examination at home.
Dr Murray Pratt, principal dentist and clinical director at Surrey-based Forever Dental and Skin, has shared advice during Mouth Cancer Action Month, which takes place throughout November.
More than 11,000 people are diagnosed with mouth cancer in the UK every year, according to the Oral Health Foundation.
New cases in England have also increased by 119% over the past 20 years.
Research by the charity found that half of adults could not identify a symptom, while 71% had never examined their mouths for unusual changes.
Dr Pratt said: “Mouth cancer is one of the few cancers you can check for with nothing more than a mirror and a good light, and most people have never tried it.”
He recommends completing a monthly examination using a well-lit bathroom mirror, checking several areas for unusual changes.
People should start by examining their face and neck for swelling, then gently feel under their jaw for lumps.
They should then pull back their lips to look for sores, patches or changes in colour.
They should also check the inside of the cheeks and gums on both sides, then the tongue, roof, and floor of the mouth.
Dr Pratt said:
“You’re not looking for anything clever. You’re looking for something that wasn’t there last month, or something on one side that doesn’t match the other.”
According to the NHS, potential symptoms include mouth ulcers lasting longer than three weeks, red or white patches and lumps inside the mouth or on the lips.
Other warning signs include lumps in the neck or throat, which should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Dr Pratt said: “Most ulcers clear up on their own within a week or two. One that’s still there after three weeks needs looking at, even if it doesn’t hurt.”
The Oral Health Foundation advises people not to wait three weeks before seeking advice about lumps, patches or other concerning changes.
Although these symptoms can have other causes, the NHS says early detection can make mouth cancer easier to treat.
Smoking, chewing tobacco and drinking large amounts of alcohol can increase the risk of developing the disease.
Sun exposure, sunbeds and certain human papillomavirus (HPV) infections have also been linked to cancer affecting the mouth and lips.
Dr Pratt said:
“Smoking and drinking are still the biggest risks, but HPV means it isn’t only smokers who get it. This is a check for everyone, whatever your age.”
Regular checks can help people recognise unusual changes and seek professional advice, rather than waiting for their next dental appointment.
