A DENTAL surgery in Kingsmead will be carrying out free mouth cancer checks on an awareness day in September.

Residents are invited to visit Abbey Dental Practice, in Kingsmead Square, between 1pm and 2pm on September 17, which is Mouth Cancer Awareness Day.

Robert Handley, who will lead the screening, said: “We decided to get involved in the Mouth Cancer Day because we feel that as dental professionals we play a key role in early detection of mouth cancer.

"We could make a difference by spreading as much information as possible regarding the signs of mouth cancer and offer free screenings to encourage people to attend.

"We are a dedicated team at Abbey Dental Practice and we are honoured to take part in the initiative.”

Mouth cancer affects nearly 8,000 people in the UK every year and it is estimated that more than 60,000 people will be diagnosed during the next decade.

The disease can strike anyone at any time.

Dr Vinod Joshi, founder of the Mouth Cancer Foundation, said: “Mouth Cancer Awareness Day was a great success in 2013.

"Lives have been saved as dentist picked up cases of mouth cancer which would otherwise have gone undiagnosed.

"Head and neck cancers are particularly vicious and debilitating when detected late.

"Patients who survive are a huge drain on medical resources for the rest of their lives, in terms of post operative and the psychological care required.

"With earlier detection, lives are saved and costs on the NHS will reduce dramatically.”

To book an appointment on the free screening day ring the practice on 01606 44725.