
The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer involves the abnormal growth of cells in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Early detection is crucial for improving treatment outcomes. While individuals over 45 are at a higher risk for developing oral cancer, it’s important for people of all ages to get screened if they experience any of the following signs:
- Discolored patches in the mouth or on the lips, which may appear white or dark red.
- Unusual lumps or changes in texture in the oral cavity.
- Persistent canker sores that won’t heal, numb areas, or ongoing bleeding.
- Unexplained sensations in the tongue, changes in taste, or trouble swallowing.
The following factors may increase your risk of developing oral cancer:
- Smoking or using tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco.
- Drinking alcohol heavily or moderately, especially when combined with tobacco use.
- Exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV) in the mouth.
- Prolonged sun exposure, particularly for those who spend significant time outdoors.
- Poor nutrition or an unhealthy diet.
- A family history of oral cancer.
- Oral cancer is more common in men than in women.
- A history of leukoplakia, which causes thick, white patches inside the mouth.
Prevention, Detection And Treatment Of Oral Cancer
The approach to treating oral cancer will be customized based on the type, severity, and location of the cancer.
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
The goal of an oral cancer screening is to detect cancer or precancerous conditions as early as possible. During the screening, your dentist will thoroughly examine the inside of your mouth, including the area under your tongue, looking for any unusual red or white patches, sores, or abnormalities. They will also palpate the tissues in your mouth to check for lumps or unusual textures. Additionally, your dentist will inspect your throat and neck to identify any lumps or other irregularities.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If the screening reveals signs of cancer, additional tests may be recommended, such as a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is removed for lab analysis, or imaging procedures like X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, or MRIs. If a tumor is confirmed, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the specifics of the case.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
To lower the risk of oral cancer, take proactive steps today. Regular dental check-ups for screenings are essential. It’s also important to stop using tobacco products, drink alcohol in moderation, protect your lips from the sun with UV-blocking lip balms, maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and regularly check your mouth during your daily oral hygiene routine. If you notice any concerns, such as unusual sores or changes in your mouth, consult your dentist promptly. These preventive actions can significantly reduce the risk of oral cancer in the future.
Contact us today
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
If you have any risk factors for oral cancer, it’s recommended to request an oral cancer screening during your regular dental check-up. If you notice any unusual patches, lumps, or sores in your mouth, it’s important to schedule an appointment for a thorough examination as soon as possible.
Your dentist will thoroughly examine your lips, mouth, cheeks, gums, and all sides of your tongue. They will also check for lumps or unusual textures by gently palpating the area. Additionally, they may feel your jaw, throat, and neck for tenderness or irregularities.
Start by washing your hands with warm, soapy water. Stand in front of a mirror and examine the roof of your mouth, lips, tongue, and gums. Pull your top and bottom lips to check behind them. You can use a cotton pad or gauze to help grip your tongue to inspect the sides and underside. Use your fingers to feel inside your mouth, looking for color changes, lumps, unusual textures, or tenderness. If you have any sores that haven’t healed after two weeks, be sure to inform your dentist.
Early signs of mouth cancer are often small, painless, flat patches with colors such as red, white, gray, or yellow, usually with red borders. These patches may appear on the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, or the roof of the mouth. If you notice anything unusual, it’s best to have it checked by a dentist or doctor.
The most common location for oral cancer is the lateral border of the tongue.
