Mouth Cancer Action Month and Why Early Detection Matters

Mouth cancer is one of the UK’s most rapidly increasing cancers, and yet, awareness remains worryingly low. That’s why Mouth Cancer Action Month is such a vital campaign. Led by the Oral Health Foundation, this national initiative highlights the importance of understanding the risks, symptoms, and early detection of mouth cancer every November. It’s a life-saving message, and at Acorn Dental — your trusted dentist in Birmingham, Bromsgrove, and Solihull, we’re proud to support it.

With cases of mouth cancer having grown by over 130% in the last 20 years, it’s time for more of us to take action. Whether you’re attending a routine check-up, making lifestyle changes, or sharing information with loved ones, every effort helps spread awareness and reduce the impact of this devastating disease.

Why This Campaign Matters Now More Than Ever

Over 10,800 people in the UK were diagnosed with mouth cancer last year, and sadly, 3,637 lost their lives. The survival rate after ten years can be as low as 18%, depending on how early it’s caught and where the cancer appears. These numbers are sobering, but they also tell us something crucial: early detection saves lives.

At Acorn Dental, we want to help change these statistics. As your dedicated dentist in Birmingham, we’re committed to offering not only expert treatment but also education and support. Regular dental visits are an essential line of defence in detecting abnormalities early on. When caught in its earliest stages, mouth cancer is far easier to treat, and survival rates improve significantly.

Understanding the Causes of Mouth Cancers

You might be surprised to learn that around 90% of mouth cancers are linked to lifestyle choices. While researchers don’t always know the exact cause, several factors have been strongly associated with increased risk. These include:

• Smoking: Smokers are up to ten times more likely to develop mouth cancer than non-smokers.
• Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption contributes to nearly 30% of all cases.
• Combination of smoking and drinking: When both habits are present, the risk multiplies by three.
• Poor diet and nutrition: A lack of fruits and vegetables can reduce the body’s ability to combat disease.

Understanding these risk factors is a key part of preventive dentistry, which is central to everything we do at Acorn Dental. Our team, including our experienced dental hygienist, provides tailored advice to help patients reduce their risks through better habits and regular monitoring.

Recognising the Signs and Symptoms

Spotting mouth cancer early can make a world of difference. But too often, people overlook or dismiss the warning signs. That’s why knowing what to look out for is vital.

Here are the most common symptoms:

• Ulcers that don’t heal within three weeks
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Lumps, bumps, or swellings
• Difficulty swallowing or a persistent sore throat
• Numbness in the tongue or lips

We recommend performing self-checks at home and scheduling regular visits with your dentist. A professional examination takes only a few minutes but could detect something serious before it worsens. If in doubt, get checked out.

How You Can Support Mouth Cancer Action Month

There are many ways you can take part in this important campaign, and most of them are simple, practical steps that can make a real difference.

• Book a dental check-up: If you haven’t visited the dentist in over 6 months, now is the time. At Acorn Dental, we carry out thorough oral health assessments with every appointment, including checks for signs of mouth cancer.
• Share knowledge: Talk to friends and family about the risks and symptoms of mouth cancer. Encourage them to visit the dentist regularly and make healthier choices.
• Make positive lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption are two of the most effective ways to lower your risk. Our team can offer support or signpost helpful resources.
• Raise awareness online and offline: Wear the blue ribbon badge, participate in local events, or share facts on social media using the hashtag #MouthCancerActionMonth.
• Prioritise your health with preventive dentistry: Regular cleanings with a dental hygienist can prevent many oral health issues and provide peace of mind through routine checks.

Partner with Acorn Dental to Protect Your Oral Health

At Acorn Dental, we take your health seriously. Every routine visit includes a comprehensive oral cancer screening, it’s a standard part of our preventive dentistry approach. We believe that empowering our patients with knowledge and maintaining regular care routines are two of the most powerful tools in the fight against mouth cancer.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. If you’ve noticed any unusual changes in your mouth or simply haven’t had a check-up in over a year, book an appointment with Acorn Dental, your caring and experienced dentist in Birmingham.