Mouth (Oral) Cancer 

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 Mouth cancer is on the rise in Ireland, with about 300 cases reported each year.  The incidence of the disease has increased faster than any other cancer in the past 25 years. Two people die each week in Ireland from the disease, and it kills more people than cervical cancer and malignant melanomas. Early detection is vital and there’s a good prognosis if it’s picked up early. Anyone can be affected by mouth cancer, whether they have their own teeth or not. So it’s just as important for denture wearers to have regular dental screening.

Here at Dentist Rathmines, we do cancer screening as part of your routine dental check-up.
What can cause mouth cancer?
Most cases of mouth cancer are linked to tobacco and alcohol. There may also be link to certain viruses such as the Human Papilloma virus. Over-exposure to sunlight can also increase the risk of lip cancer.


How can I make sure that my mouth stays healthy?
  1. Visit  Dentist Rathmines regularly even if you wear dentures. This is especially important if you smoke and drink alcohol.
  2. When brushing your teeth, look out for any changes in your mouth or neck. Early warning signs include ulcers that do not heal within three weeks, red or white patches in the mouth, or other unusual changes in the mouth or neck.
  3. When exposed to the sun, make sure to use the correct type of barrier cream on your lips.
  4. Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. A good diet, rich in vitamins A, C and E, helps the body to protect itself from most cancers.
  5. Avoid the risk factors for mouth cancer. These include:
  • Smoking tobacco – cigarettes, roll-ups, cigars, pipes or cannabis.
  •  Excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Using both tobacco and alcohol together – this greatly increases your risk.
  • Excessive exposure to sunlight or radiation (for lip cancer).
  • Chewing tobacco
  • A diet lacking in fruit and vegetables.
  • Viral infections, e.g., human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV can be spread through oral sex


For more information please visit: www.mouthcancerawareness.ie