Fishguard dental team throws support behind Mouth Cancer Action Month
A dental team from Fishguard has thrown its support behind Mouth Cancer Action Month to raise awareness of oral cancer in November.
Dentists, dental nurses and reception staff at Vergam Dental Practice have been wearing blue t-shirts to support the annual initiative to educate patients about mouth cancer. Every year, more than 8,000 new cases are diagnosed in the UK, and rates have increased by almost 50% in the last 10 years alone. The team has also decked out the reception area in leaflets and posters that highlight the symptoms and causes of mouth cancer.
The main symptoms of oral cancer include slow-healing mouth ulcers, red and white patches in the mouth and abnormal swelling, oral pain and bleeding. Some patients also experience hoarseness, a persistent sore throat and difficulty swallowing.
Mouth Cancer Action Month is a campaign run by the Oral Health Foundation and the Mouth Cancer Foundation. During the month of November, dental professionals take part in programmes and events that are designed to make more people aware of the risk factors and symptoms of oral cancer.
By wearing eye-catching blue t-shirts and providing information about mouth cancer, the Vergam Dental practice team is hoping to encourage patients to keep up to date with regular check-ups and to keep an eye out for potential warning signs. Oral cancer checks are provided during routine check-ups, but many practices are also offering free screening in November.
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