Mouth cancer can affect anybody and it is important that we all know what to look out for. Early detection could save your life. If you notice any changes in your mouth please speak to a dentist or doctor immediately.
Be mouthaware and check for changes in your mouth in these few simple steps:
Head and neck:
Do both sides look the same? Look for any lumps or swellings that are only on one side of the face.
Neck:
Feel and press along the front and sides of the neck. Can you feel any lumps?
Cheeks:
Look out for red, white or dark patches. Put your index finger inside the cheek and your thumb on the outside. Squeeze the cheek for any lumps, tenderness or ulcers.
Lips:
Pull down the lower lip and look for any sores or any change in colour. Use your thumb and index finger to feel the lip for lumps and changes in texture.
Mouth:
Run your finger on the roof of the mouth to feel for any lumps. Repeat on the floor of the mouth.
Tongue:
Look for any changes in the colour or texture of the surface. Check the sides for any swellings or changes in colour or ulcers. Examine the underside.
Early detection is crucial – please call us if anything concerns you. Make sure that you see us regularly for your exams where we always check for any changes in your mouth. Doctor Bob To has helped a number of his patients with oral cancer by detecting it early and directing patients to receive prompt treatment.
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