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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.
Can you spot the odd object? 🔍
This summer, we’re proud to be taking part in the RNLI Portishead Lifeboat Station Spot the Odd Object trail! 🚤❤️
From 25 July to 29 August, explore Portishead, visit participating businesses and see if you can spot the mystery object hidden in each window - including ours here at Evolve Dentistry!
Not only is it a great way to enjoy a family day out, but every £5 entry helps support the incredible volunteers at RNLI Portishead Lifeboat Station, who work tirelessly to help keep people safe at sea.
📍 Visit our practice and see if you can find our hidden object.
👀 Don’t forget to complete your entry form for your chance to win one of the fantastic cash prizes!
If you take part, we’d love to see your photos - tag Evolve Dentistry and let us know when you’ve found our mystery object!
Good luck… and happy spotting! 🔎💙
#Portishead #RNLI #SpotTheOddObject #SupportLocal #FamilyFun #EvolveDentistry #PortisheadEvents #SummerHolidays
Will composite bonding damage my teeth?
It’s a common concern, especially for patients who want to improve their smile while protecting their natural teeth.
The good news is that composite bonding is often one of the most conservative cosmetic dental treatments available. In many cases, little or no preparation of the tooth is required, meaning your natural tooth structure can be preserved.
Composite bonding can be used to improve the appearance of:
✔ Chipped teeth
✔ Small gaps between teeth
✔ Uneven tooth shapes
✔ Worn edges
✔ Minor imperfections
Because the treatment is minimally invasive, many patients choose composite bonding when they want to enhance their smile without significant changes to their natural teeth.
Every smile is unique, so we’ll always discuss your options and explain exactly what’s involved before any treatment begins.
📍 Evolve Dentistry, Portishead
#Northsomerset #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #compositebonding #smilemakeovers #cosmeticdentistry #newpatients #naturalteeth #healthysmiles #healthysmile #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #smiledesign #bonding #confidentsmile #cosmeticsmile
Reading comments like this reminds us why we do what we do.
Helping people feel comfortable and cared for is just as important as providing great dentistry.
Thank you for your kind words.
You could be grinding your teeth every night… without even knowing it. 😴
Many people assume they’d know if they were clenching or grinding their teeth.
In reality, most don’t.
As Richard explains, while we’re asleep our brains continue processing the events and stresses of the day. For some people, that stress is released through clenching or grinding their teeth - but because the part of the brain that would normally recognise it is effectively switched off during sleep, we often have no idea it’s happening.
Over time, tooth grinding can contribute to:
• Worn or chipped teeth
• Jaw pain or stiffness
• Morning headaches
• Sensitive teeth
• Disrupted sleep
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, it’s worth mentioning them at your next appointment. We can look for the signs of tooth grinding and discuss ways to help protect your teeth before more damage occurs.
Have you ever been told you grind your teeth, or has someone heard you doing it while you sleep?
#ToothGrinding #Bruxism #HealthySmile #DentalHealth #Portishead #EvolveDentistry
✨ Looking for a role where people matter?
We’re searching for a new Front of House Team Member to join our award-winning team at Evolve Dentistry.
This isn’t just about answering the phone or booking appointments.
It’s about creating the kind of welcome that makes people feel relaxed from the moment they walk through our doors. It’s remembering the little things, taking pride in every interaction and helping deliver an experience that patients genuinely talk about.
If you’re warm, organised, love looking after people and enjoy being part of a supportive team, we’d love to hear from you.
Experience in dentistry isn’t essential. We’re looking for the right person with the right attitude - someone who genuinely enjoys making a difference to someone’s day.
If that sounds like you, or someone you know, we’d love to hear from you - hello@evolve-dentistry.co.uk
📍 Portishead
💙 Award-winning team culture
☕ Every patient welcomed like a guest
Please share this post with anyone who might be the perfect fit.
🚦 Travelling to Evolve? Please allow a little extra time.
If you’re visiting us over the next few weeks, please be aware that there are temporary traffic lights on the Portbury Hundred until 10th August, which are causing delays, particularly at busier times of the day.
We’d hate for your journey to add any unnecessary stress, so if you have an appointment with us, we’d recommend allowing a little extra travel time.
If you think you may be delayed, please give our reception team a call and we’ll do everything we can to help.
Thank you for your patience, and we look forward to welcoming you to the practice. 💙
“Great patient focus and excellent staff and facilities.”
Those few words mean a great deal to us.
Because creating an exceptional experience isn’t just about modern facilities - it’s about making every person who walks through our doors feel welcomed, listened to and genuinely cared for.
Every interaction matters, from your first phone call to the moment you leave the practice.
Thank you to everyone who shared their feedback in our recent patient survey. Your kind words remind us why we do what we do, and inspire us to keep making every experience the best that it can be. 💙
#EvolveDentistry #PatientExperience #PatientFeedback #Portishead #Compassion #ExceptionalCare
