Chagford Dental Practice is holding a free open morning on Wednesday, November 14, offering free oral health screenings as part of Mouth Cancer Action Month.

The screenings are open to anyone, whether a patient at the practice or not. People can drop in from 9am to 1pm to be checked out by Dr Sally Button or Dr Simon Channing.

Dr Button, a dentist at the practice, said: 'We are delighted to get involved in Mouth Cancer Action Month. It is vital that people are aware of the risks and are checked regularly for signs of mouth cancer — early detection saves lives.'

Running for the duration of November, Mouth Cancer Action Month features the tagline 'If In Doubt, Get Checked Out' and urges the public to visit their dentist for an oral screening.

Early diagnosis saves lives, improving survival chances from just half of cases to more than 90%.

Early warning signs include ulcers which do not heal within three weeks, red and white patches in the mouth and unusual changes in the mouth.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of campaign organisers the British Dental Health Foundation, said: 'We are delighted that Chagford Dental Practice has joined the many dental practices, schools, health professionals and community groups promoting Mouth Cancer Action Month.

'Three-quarters of cases are linked to tobacco and alcohol so it is important that smokers are encouraged to quit and alcohol is consumed in moderation. The human papilloma virus (HPV), transmitted via oral sex, as well as poor diets are also linked to mouth cancer.

'Worryingly, the disease is also now affecting a younger group of people and many more who display none of the traditional risk factors.

'Yet early diagnosis can really make the difference so make sure you visit a dentist regularly and check your mouth as often as possible, it could just save your life.'

To find out more about the session call the practice on 01647 432224.