Oral health experts are calling for increased public awareness and regular self-checks for mouth cancer, as new cases have more than doubled in the UK over the last 20 years, primarily driven by diagnoses in people under 50.

Despite the rise, research from the Oral Health Foundation indicates that public awareness of the warning signs has not kept pace. Fewer than a third of adults have ever checked their mouths for suspicious changes, and half struggle to identify a single symptom.

Dentists are urging the public to pay close attention to mouth ulcers, which are often dismissed as a sign of being run down. "It's easy to explain away an ulcer, patch or lump, especially if it doesn't hurt," said Catherine Brady, registered dentist and President Elect of the foundation. "But a change that persists for over three weeks needs checking by a healthcare professional."

Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, inside of the cheek, and lips. A key indicator is an ulcer or patch that does not heal within three weeks. "If the tongue has some sort of painless ulcer that doesn't clear up in a matter of weeks, that's one of the biggest warning signs of a high risk oral cancer," according to Dr. Victoria Sampson, a functional dentist.

Karen Liesching-Schroder, a mother of two who never smoked and rarely drank alcohol, shared her experience of ignoring an ulcer on her tongue that eventually developed into cancer. "I had an ulcer on my tongue, but it didn't heal and it turned into a hole in my tongue," she said. "But I still didn't realise that that was tongue cancer at the time."

Patients with suspected mouth cancer are referred to specialists for biopsies and may undergo imaging such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs. Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, sometimes including parts of the tongue or jaw, highlighting the importance of early detection.

Other symptoms to watch for include red or white patches inside the mouth, unusual lumps or swelling on the lips, cheeks, or neck, difficulty swallowing, and a hoarse voice. Experts emphasize that if anything appears unusual or does not resolve within three weeks, individuals should consult a GP or dental professional promptly. "Do not wait three weeks to seek advice about any worrying changes," Ms. Brady urged. "The three-week message applies specifically to an ulcer that has not healed. Dental practices should take concerns about changes in the mouth seriously and arrange prompt assessments. But if you cannot get a dental appointment, contact your GP."

Primary causes of mouth cancer include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and the human papillomavirus (HPV). While smoking and alcohol significantly increase risk, HPV is becoming a more prominent factor, particularly with changing lifestyle choices.

Vaping is also being scrutinized, with some research suggesting it could be as harmful as cigarettes and increase the risk of mouth cancer by causing DNA changes and oral inflammation. Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk fourfold, while smoking and drinking together raise the risk approximately 30-fold.

Experts note that the HPV vaccine, widely administered to young people, offers protection against HPV-related oral cancers. However, with falling rates of smoking and alcohol consumption, HPV is projected to become the leading risk factor for oral cancer within the next decade.

To aid early detection, the Oral Health Foundation advises regular self-examination in front of a mirror after brushing. Checking for unusual swellings, sores, ulcers, or lumps in the mouth, on the lips and cheeks, and under and around the tongue can help individuals identify changes that warrant professional attention. The organization stresses that seeking prompt assessment for any persistent or unusual changes is crucial for effective treatment outcomes.