Face
Dentistry
November is Mouth Cancer Action Month. These 30 days are for fundraising and improving our understanding of this dangerous disease.
Last year, 8,864 people received the life-changing news that they have mouth cancer.[i] Able to spread quickly, mouth cancer claims more lives than cervical and testicular cancer combined. It is also a bigger killer per year than road traffic accidents.i Being able to identify the signs and symptoms is essential to save lives – the earlier the diagnosis, the more successful the treatment can be.
Signs and symptoms
Mouth cancer can develop in the tongue, gums, inner cheek lining, floor of the mouth, and lips.[ii] Current awareness of the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer is at 17%.i This must increase to give at-risk patients the best shot at beating it.
There can be many symptoms of mouth cancer. Visual changes may include:
Other symptoms are:
If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, see a doctor or a dentist. Early diagnosis can stop the fast spread of the cancer.
Knowing the risk
Certain people are more likely to develop mouth cancer than others. There are many risk factors that cannot be controlled. These can include age, a family history of mouth cancer, having a weakened immune system, and gender. However, there are some preventable risk factors.
The most well-known risk factor for mouth cancer is smoking – it is linked to over 60% of mouth cancers.[iv] This is because tobacco contains over 60 toxic chemicals that can cause cancer.[v] These are called carcinogens. Smokers who also drink large quantities of alcohol are at an even greater risk.iii Quitting smoking or switching to e-cigarettes can reduce the risk of mouth cancer.
Another preventable risk factor is human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV is one of the most common STIs.[vi] It often goes away on its own but sexually active people should get regular STI tests and practice safe sex. School vaccination programmes have also proven successful.
People who work outside for long periods of time are also at risk. This can include farmers, sailors and builders. The constant exposure to the sun and UV rays can increase the risk of mouth cancer developing. Wearing an SPF lip balm and shielding the face with a hat can reduce this risk for outdoor workers.
Be part of the battle
Incidence of mouth cancer has risen by 49% over the past decade.i Being able to spot signs and symptoms is important for treating it early. At-risk patients need regular check-ups and should control any harmful lifestyle choices that can reduce the risk of mouth cancer.
This November, join us in raising awareness for the symptoms and risks of mouth cancer. From educating family members to encouraging smokers to vape, there are many small ways that you can get involved. Don’t let mouth cancer impact the lives of those around you.
🎉 We’re proud to share some great news 🎉
Evolve Dentistry has been accredited by Save Face for the 6th year in a row.
Save Face is the UK’s leading register for practitioners who meet the highest standards of safety, transparency and patient care. This continued accreditation reflects our ongoing commitment to providing treatments you can trust, delivered with care, professionalism and integrity.
Thank you to our wonderful patients for choosing Evolve, and to our dedicated team for maintaining these high standards year after year 💙
🚦 Travel update for patients 🚦
If you’re visiting us over the next few weeks, please be aware that temporary three-way traffic lights are in place on Harbour Road in Portishead, which is causing some delays.
We kindly ask that you allow a little extra time for your journey so you can arrive relaxed and on time for your appointment.
Thank you for your patience, and we look forward to welcoming you to the practice. 😊
How healthy are your everyday habits? 🦷💚
The NHS Healthy Choices quiz is a simple, helpful way to reflect on small lifestyle habits that can make a big difference to your overall health — including your oral health.
It only takes a few minutes, and you might be surprised by what you learn. No judgement, just gentle guidance and practical tips you can use straight away.
👉 Take the quiz here: https://bit.ly/4sBMx2W
And if you ever want to chat about how your choices affect your smile, our team is always happy to help — you’re never on your own with it at Evolve.
#HealthyChoices #NHSWellbeing #OralHealthMatters #EvolveDentistry #LookingAfterYourSmile
Feeling self-conscious about your smile can affect so much more than just photos.
In this video, Gemma shares her experience of having veneers with Carol at Evolve Dentistry. She explains how she had always felt unhappy with her smile and was also a nervous patient — something many people can relate to.
From her very first visit, Gemma felt welcomed and supported by the whole team. The friendly, calm approach at Evolve helped her feel more relaxed and confident throughout her treatment.
Now, she’s absolutely overjoyed with her results and finally feels comfortable smiling again.
Thank you, Gemma, for trusting us and for sharing your story 💙
Looking after your oral hygiene at home makes a real difference to your long-term dental health 🦷
In this video, Jessica shares a few simple, everyday tips you can do at home to help keep your teeth and gums healthy between visits. Nothing complicated — just small changes that can have a big impact over time.
Whether you’re brushing twice a day already or feel like your routine could use a refresh, this is a great place to start.
If you ever have questions about your home care routine, our team is always happy to help. 💙
✨ Currently welcoming new patients ✨
We care for a limited number of patients so we can offer calm, considered dental care.
Right now, we’re able to welcome new patients to Evolve Dentistry. If you’ve been thinking about joining a local practice in Portishead, we’d love to hear from you.
📞 Contact reception on 01275 842 550
