Every year more than 6500 of us are diagnosed with Oral Cancer (BDHF, 2014).

We assume the dentist is just checking our teeth but in reality their checking inside our whole mouth.

Mouth cancer is a cancer that occurs as an ulcer in any part of the mouth including the tongue surface, the lips, inside the cheek, in the gums, in the roof and floor of the mouth, in the tonsils, and also the salivary glands.

Did you know??

•  Mouth cancer is more common in patients over 40 years old
•  Cigarettes & Alcohol use increase the risk of mouth cancer

A normal ulcer is oval in shape, red and swollen. They are usually only present for up to one week.

Any persisting ulcers need to be examined by your dentist who will refer you to see a specialist.

Normal ulcers and cancerous ulcers can often look the same. A scary thought!

If your ulcer has been present for more than three weeks ensure you visit your dentist and remember continue with your regular dental check-ups.

References:

British Dental Health Foundation (2014)