The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat can indicate oral cancer. When detected early, treatment success rates are high. While the risk increases after age 45, anyone experiencing these symptoms should consider a screening:
- Patches of unusual color on the lips or inside the mouth, such as white or deep red spots
- Unexpected lumps or noticeable differences in tissue texture
- Sores that don’t heal, areas of numbness, or continuous bleeding
- Altered tongue sensations, changes in taste, or trouble swallowing
The Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Certain habits and conditions can raise the likelihood of developing oral cancer, including:
- Use of tobacco in any form, such as cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco
- Regular or excessive alcohol intake, especially when combined with tobacco use
- Possible exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV) in the mouth
- Prolonged sun exposure, which raises the risk of lip cancer
- An unbalanced diet or poor nutritional habits
- A family history of oral cancer, which may indicate a genetic predisposition
- Occurring more frequently in men than in women
- Previous diagnosis of leukoplakia, a condition that causes thick, white patches inside the mouth
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
The treatment plan is determined by the specific type, stage, and location of the cancer.
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
Oral cancer screenings aim to catch cancer or precancerous changes as early as possible. During the exam, your dentist will inspect the inside of your mouth, under your tongue, and along the soft tissues for unusual red or white patches or sores. They will also gently feel for any lumps or changes in texture inside the mouth and along the neck and throat.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If anything suspicious is found, further testing may be required. This could involve a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken for lab analysis, or imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs. Treatment plans vary based on the type, severity, and location of cancer, but may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
There are several ways to lower the chances of developing oral cancer. Regular dental checkups help catch concerns early. Avoiding tobacco products and drinking alcohol in moderation can also reduce risk. Protecting lips from excessive sun exposure with UV-blocking lip balm, maintaining a nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and routinely checking your mouth for any unusual changes can all contribute to prevention. If you notice anything concerning, be sure to discuss it with your dentist.
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to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone with risk factors for oral cancer should consider adding a screening to their routine dental exam. If you notice an unexplained lump, sore, or discoloration in your mouth, it’s best to havce it checked as soon as possible.
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will inspect your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue (including all sides), and the roof of your mouth. They will also gently feel for any lumps or changes in texture inside your mouth, as well as check your jaw, throat, neck, and face for any abnormalities or tenderness.
Start by washing your hands with warm, soapy water. Using a mirror, examine your lips, gums, tongue (top, sides, and underside), and the roof of your mouth. Gently pull your lips up and down to check behind them. A piece of gauze or a cotton pad can help you grip your tongue for a better look. Feel the inside of your mouth with clean fingers, checking for color changes, lumps, unusual textures, or sore spots. If a sore doesn’t heal within two weeks, let your dentist know.
In its initial phase, oral cancer often appears as small, flat, and painless patches that may be red, white, gray, or yellow with red borders. These patches can develop anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and roof of the mouth. If you notice anything unusual, it’s always best to have it examined by your dentist or doctor.
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