The impact of the coronavirus lockdown has resulted in numerous individuals postponing dental appointments, leading to concerns from dentists about the undiagnosed cases of mouth cancer.

Research by the Oral Health Foundation has unveiled that 71 percent of Brits are unaware of the symptoms of mouth cancer, and a staggering 83 percent lack confidence in recognizing its signs. Additionally, 62 percent admit to never having checked their mouths for potential issues.

Here are six critical signs of mouth cancer that individuals should be aware of:

Mouth Ulcers:

• 52 percent of people recognize mouth ulcers as a potential sign of mouth cancer.
• Pay attention to mouth ulcers that persist for more than three weeks, especially if they are painful.
• Focus on the tongue, checking for abnormalities such as red or white patches, lumps, or numb spots.
• Red or White Patches:
  
  

41 percent recognize red patches, while 48 percent acknowledge white patches as potential signs.
Regularly check the lining of the mouth and the tongue for any color changes.

Unusual Lumps:

• Only 47 percent of individuals are aware that unusual lumps could indicate mouth cancer.
• Regularly feel both the inside and outside of the cheeks for any lumps that might not be immediately visible.

Swelling:

• Swelling in the mouth, on the tongue, neck, or head can be a sign of mouth cancer.
• Regularly check for any lumps or swollen areas, ensuring consistency on both sides.

Hoarseness:

• Only 23 percent recognize hoarseness as a symptom.
• Persistent hoarseness, especially beyond the typical winter cold or flu symptoms, should be monitored.
  

Loose Teeth:

• Teeth feeling loose or wobbly could be a potential sign, according to the NHS.
• Sockets that do not heal after extraction may also indicate a concern.

Regular self-checks involving the examination of cheeks, gums, lips, tongue, tonsils, the floor, and roof of the mouth, as well as the head and neck, are crucial for early detection. Identifying mouth ulcers that persist, observing color changes, checking for lumps, and monitoring any unusual swelling or hoarseness can significantly contribute to early diagnosis. With early detection, the chances of surviving mouth cancer increase substantially, underscoring the importance of self-examinations in maintaining oral health.