Improving oral health

The problem

Oral cancer claims more lives each year than car accidents, and dentists are often the first health professionals to spot the telltale signs. Sadly, ongoing access problems mean that many cases are going undetected until it is too late.

The solution

Early detection is key. We work to ensure patients can secure access to life saving check-ups. Public awareness of oral cancer is also very low, so we share information to increase the knowledge of this life changing condition.

Our impact

We have helped to win the argument to extend protection from the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) to school aged boys. This disease has been fuelling a surge in oral cancer cases. A gender-neutral vaccine programme began in 2019.

Tools and support

The oral cancer toolkit, produced in partnership with Cancer Research UK
BDJ collection: Head and Neck cancer brings together articles on various different head and neck cancers, from causes, pathology and detection to restoration and management
Read the BDJTeam feature on smoking cessation for further information and resources.

In partnership with CRUK

The oral cancer toolkit

The oral cancer toolkit helps dental health professionals identify and refer possible cases of oral cancer. It includes information on the signs to look out for, how to respond, possible risk factors, and a CPD quiz with three hours of verifiable CPD.

Oral cancer toolkit

bdj collection

Head and neck cancer

This collection of articles focuses on various different head and neck cancers, including mouth cancer. From causes and pathology to restoration and management, it brings together insightful content from the British Dental Journal, BDJ Team and Evidence-Based Dentistry.

browse now