As one of the UK’s fastest-growing cancers, mouth cancer affects thousands every year, yet awareness remains worryingly low. That’s why Pure Smiles is proud to support this impactful campaign, led by the Oral Health Foundation, to spread vital knowledge and encourage our community to take action for better oral health.
Mouth cancer is a growing concern across the UK. Over 10,800 new cases were diagnosed last year, a 38% increase over the past decade and a 133% rise in the last 20 years. Sadly, 3,637 people lost their lives to this disease, many due to late detection. Despite these figures, only 8% of people are aware of the main causes of mouth cancers.
Mouth Cancer Action Month aims to change that by improving public understanding, encouraging regular dental visits, and empowering individuals to recognise the early warning signs.
At Pure Smiles, we believe that awareness is the first step towards prevention. Through education and early detection, we can save lives and reduce the growing impact of this preventable disease.
Experts don’t know the exact cause of every case, but evidence shows that up to 90% of mouth cancers are linked to lifestyle choices. Understanding these risk factors helps us take control of our health and make positive changes.
Some of the most common causes of mouth cancers include:
The good news is that by quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, and maintaining a healthy diet, you can significantly lower your risk.
At Pure Smiles, we advocate preventive dentistry as the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. Preventing disease before it starts is always better and more effective than treating it later. Regular dental examinations are crucial, not only for maintaining your teeth and gums but also for detecting mouth cancer early.
If it’s been more than 12 months since your last visit, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment. During your examination, our experienced team provides comprehensive dental care in Fulham, performing a full mouth examination and screening for early signs of cancer, such as:
A simple screening can make all the difference. Early detection dramatically improves the chance of successful treatment, reinforcing why preventive dentistry is essential for everyone.
Your dentist is your first defence against mouth cancer. Visit Pure Smiles to ensure your oral health is up to date and any concerns are addressed early.
Visit the Oral Health Foundation’s website and share educational materials on social media. Awareness starts conversations, and conversations save lives.
Perform self-examinations once a month. Look out for persistent ulcers, unusual patches, or any changes in your mouth. If something feels off, contact us immediately.
Quit smoking, reduce alcohol, and eat nutrient-rich foods. These changes not only lower your cancer risk but also improve your overall well-being.
Participate in events, wear a blue ribbon, or donate to the Oral Health Foundation. Every effort helps promote education and prevention nationwide.
At Pure Smiles, we combine compassion, innovation, and clinical excellence to deliver exceptional dental care in Fulham. Our goal is not just to treat problems but to prevent them, ensuring that our patients enjoy lifelong oral and general health.
As proud supporters of Mouth Cancer Action Month, our dedicated team offers screenings, advice, and education to help you understand the risks, take preventive action, and maintain confidence in your smile.
If you notice any unusual lumps, sores, or discolouration, or it’s simply been too long since your last dental visit, get in touch with Pure Smiles today. A comprehensive examination could be life-saving.
