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When we think of the word cancer, we automatically align the word with a malicious disease that primarily affects our lungs, breasts, prostate, skin, and even cancer of the blood. There are, however, growing numbers of individuals who are now suffering from mouth cancer.
November is Mouth Cancer Action Month, and at Evolve Dentistry we think it’s vital that more people are made aware of this growing concern.
What exactly is mouth cancer?
Cancer of the mouth can affect the lips, gums, tongue and cheeks, and in the last year alone around 7,000 cases were diagnosed in the UK alone. The Oral Health Foundation finds this to be an increase of 1/3 in comparison to the previous decade.
Mouth cancer takes the form of tumours within the mouth in salivary glands or throat. The most common type of mouth cancer is called Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Other types of mouth cancer include adenocarcinomas, which is produced in the salivary glands, lymphomas and oral melanomas.
Causes
Typical causes of mouth cancer include excessive smoking and drinking. Recent research has found that cases of mouth cancer have been linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is more traditionally associated with cervical cancer. Traditionally, mouth cancer has been known to occur in adults between the ages of 50 and 74, with only 12.5% of cases occurring in people younger. There is now an increasing number of cases occurring in young adults, however, primarily in relation to the HPV infection.
Symptoms
The following symptoms are typically associated with mouth cancer, and as with any form of cancer, it is crucial to be aware of what to look out for.
Mouth ulcers are a particularly significant symptom as these could, in fact, be cancerous tumours. Any ulcers that have lasted more than 3 weeks and are not painful should be checked by your dentist. Persistent lumps in the mouth or neck should also be monitored closely. If you find that your speech changes in any way, which can include the development of a speech impediment, this could be a sign of mouth cancer. Finally, consistent experiences of numbness in the lips and tongue, or looseness of the teeth could also be a symptom.
Whilst you may not experience any of these symptoms, if you notice any irregularity developing in your mouth or neck, it is always worth consulting with a dental and medical professional for guidance.
Treatments and Prevention
The primary reason that a better understanding of the types, causes and symptoms of mouth cancer, is to be prepared to act quickly to prevent any fatal development.
The most effective ways to prevent mouth cancer from arising is maintaining a healthy diet filled with vegetables and the healthy oils found in fish. It is important that alcohol consumption is limited – or more specifically that it does not exceed the recommended 14 units per week, and individuals are advised to stop smoking entirely. Drinking alchohol and smoking at the same time, increases your risk of developing cancer by 50 fold. Regular dental exams will not only maintain the general health of your teeth and gums but will also ensure that any irregularities that emerge are identified and dealt with quickly.
Treatment of mouth cancer is in-keeping with standard cancer treatments available today. Surgery is the typical treatment, particularly when cancerous cells and tumours are found. The NHS found that, with an early diagnosis, 90% of mouth cancer cases can be treated with only surgery. Some cases may require additional treatment such as a course of radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
Aftercare will also focus on ensuring the primary functions and appearance of the mouth are maintained.
Evolve Dentistry is committed to ensuring that everyone understands the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of mouth cancer this Mouth Cancer Action Month. For more information, visit the Mouth Cancer Action Month website, or contact our knowledgeable team for support and guidance.
Years of teeth grinding had left Mandy unhappy with the appearance of her teeth - so she came to see Richard to explore her options.
Using carefully planned composite bonding, we were able to restore her smile while improving the worn appearance caused by grinding, helping her feel more confident again. ✨
In this video, Mandy shares her experience and why she decided to go ahead with treatment at Evolve Dentistry.
If you’ve noticed wear, chipping or shortening of your teeth from grinding or clenching, there may be options available to help protect and improve your smile.
📍 Portishead
📞 Get in touch with the practice to book a consultation
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #smilemakeovers #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #compositebonding #teethgrinding #wornteeth #smileconfidence #cosmeticdentistry #naturalteeth #healthysmiles #adultsmilemakeover
Confidence can change everything - and sometimes, the smallest changes to your smile can make the biggest difference to how you feel day to day.
Whether it’s hiding your smile in photos, covering your mouth when you laugh, or simply not feeling like the best version of yourself, cosmetic dentistry can help you feel more comfortable and confident again.
At Evolve Dentistry, we take the time to understand what matters to you and create natural-looking results that still feel like you.
If you’ve been thinking about improving your smile, we’d love to help you explore your options. ✨
📍 Portishead
📞 DM us or contact the practice to book a consultation
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #smilemakeovers #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #cosmeticdentistry #smileconfidence #naturalsmiles #compositebonding #teethwhitening #veneers #smiledesign #adultsmilemakeover
✨ “I’m so pleased I did it.” ✨
There’s nothing better than hearing how much more confident a patient feels after Invisalign treatment 💙
In this video, our lovely patient shares her experience with Invisalign treatment with Yasmin at Evolve Dentistry, and how supported she felt throughout the process by our kind and considerate team.
Straightening your teeth is about so much more than appearances – it’s about feeling confident when you smile, laugh and look in the mirror.
If you’ve been thinking about Invisalign treatment, we’d love to help you explore your options.
📍 Portishead
📞 Get in touch to book a consultation
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #straighterteetheveryday #straighterteeth #newpatients #naturalteeth #healthysmiles #smilemakeovers #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #Invisalign #adultbraces #adultbracesuk #gapsinteeth
🦷 Ever wondered what a CEREC machine actually does? ✨
Maggie explains how we use CEREC technology at Evolve Dentistry to create precise ceramic restorations using digital scans and advanced design technology.
From improving accuracy to making treatment more comfortable and convenient for patients, it’s a piece of technology our team genuinely loves using every day.
Watch the video to find out why CEREC has transformed the way we deliver dentistry at Evolve 🤍
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #healthysmiles #smilemakeovers #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #digitaldentistry #cerec #cosmeticdentistry #dentaltechnology
A smile can change so much 💙
For many people, improving their oral health or feeling more confident about their smile can have a real impact on everyday life - from photographs, to social situations, to simply feeling more comfortable being themselves.
Smile Month is a reminder that dental care isn’t just about treatment - it’s about helping people feel healthier, happier and more confident too.
Whether it’s maintaining healthy teeth and gums, straightening teeth, whitening, or simply helping nervous patients feel at ease, every smile journey matters.
Thank you for trusting us with yours ✨
#SmileMonth #SmileConfidence #HealthySmiles #PatientsFirst #SmileMakeovers #StraighterTeeth #Healthysmile #Portishead #NorthSomerset #Dentist #AdultBraces #NaturalTeeth
Portishead, we need your help 💙
We’ve been nominated for the Together Portishead Business & Community Awards, and every nomination really does make a difference 🏆
As a local independent practice, your support means everything to us. Whether you’ve visited us for a Healthy Mouth Review, hygiene appointment, smile makeover or simply recommended us to friends and family - thank you.
If you haven’t voted yet, we’d be so grateful if you could spare 30 seconds to nominate Evolve Dentistry ✨
Vote here: www.togetherportishead.co.uk
Thank you for supporting local businesses and our amazing community 🙌
Brushing your teeth is important… but it’s only part of the story 🦷
In this video, Richard explains why cleaning between your teeth matters too - and the different ways you can do it, including:
✔ Floss
✔ TePe brushes
✔ Water flossers
Your toothbrush can’t always reach the tight spaces between your teeth, which means plaque and food can build up in these areas over time.
Cleaning between your teeth daily can help reduce:
✨ Gum problems
✨ Bad breath
✨ Tooth decay between teeth
Not sure which option is best for you? There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and our team can help you find what works best for your smile and lifestyle.
Watch the video to learn more 💙
#SmileMonth #HealthySmiles #OralHealth #GumHealth #Healthysmile #PatientsFirst #NaturalTeeth #Portishead #NorthSomerset #Dentist #PortisheadMarina #Clevedon #Nailsea
