MOUTH CANCER-UK.

DENTISTS NEED TO BE CHECKING THEIR PATIENTS FOR MOUTH CANCERS,says experts. UK cancer research says oral cancer rates are increases and some dentists are missing an opportunity to spot those at risk.Dentists nee to ask about risk factors like smoking,heavy drinking,as well as telltale signs in the mouth,says the charity.Oral cancer affects the tongue,lips,gums,cheek lining,palate and floor of the mouth.By 2030,Oral cancer will have about 9,200 cases in the UK compared to 6,240 in 2009 in UK.Major risk factors includes smoking and alcohol,a virus called HPV(human pappiloma virus) which can affect the mouth as a result of oral sex. Early diagnosis and treatment can increase a patient's chances of survival from just 50% to about 80%-90%.Mouth cancer kills 1,700 in UK every year.Most common symptoms include painless ulcers that do not heal,red and white patches and unusual changes in the mouth.