The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer develops from the abnormal growth of cells in the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat. Early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. While individuals over 45 face a higher risk, it’s essential to consider screening regardless of age if you notice any of the following:
- Patches in the mouth or on the lips that appear white, dark red, or differently colored.
- Lumps, bumps, or unusual changes in texture.
- Persistent canker sores, areas of numbness, or ongoing bleeding.
- Changes in taste, difficulty swallowing, or a strange sensation in the tongue.
The Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Certain habits and conditions can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer, such as:
- Use of tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco.
- Consuming alcohol in moderate to high quantities, particularly alongside tobacco use.
- Possible infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) in the mouth.
- Frequent exposure to sunlight or prolonged time in the sun.
- Poor dietary habits or an unhealthy diet.
- A family history of oral cancer.
- Being male, as oral cancer is more prevalent in men than women.
- A history of leukoplakia, characterized by thick, whitish patches inside the mouth.
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
Treatment plans will be customized to each individual, taking into account the type, location, and severity of the suspected cancer.
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
The purpose of an oral cancer screening is to catch cancer or precancerous conditions at an early stage. During the screening, your dentist will examine the inside of your mouth and beneath your tongue for unusual patches or sores. They will also feel the tissues inside your mouth for irregularities like lumps or unusual textures. Additionally, your dentist may check your neck and throat for any abnormal swelling or masses.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If your dentist identifies potential signs of cancer during the screening, further diagnostic tests may be recommended. These could include a biopsy, where a small sample of the suspicious area is removed for analysis, or imaging studies like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or an MRI. Treatment options, such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, will be determined based on the tumor’s type, size, and location.
Preventing Oral Cancer
Taking preventive measures now can lower your chances of developing oral cancer in the future. Regular dental visits for check-ups, quitting tobacco use, and drinking alcohol in moderation are crucial steps. Protect your lips from UV rays with sunscreen lip balms, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and routinely check your mouth while brushing and flossing. Any concerns or abnormalities should be promptly discussed 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 asking for a screening during their dental check-up. If you notice any unusual patches, lumps, or sores in your mouth, it’s recommended to schedule a visit to have them examined.
Your dentist will inspect the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and the entire inside of your mouth. They will also use their hands to check for lumps or unusual textures in the mouth, as well as in the jaw, neck, throat, and face.
Start by cleaning your hands with warm, soapy water. Using a mirror, inspect your lips, gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. Pull back your lips to check the area behind them, and use a gauze or cotton pad to grip your tongue while looking at the sides and underside. Feel inside your mouth with your fingers, checking for unusual textures, lumps, or sore spots. Contact your dentist if you notice any sores that haven’t healed within two weeks.
In the beginning stages, mouth cancer can appear as flat, painless patches that are white, red, yellow with red edges, or grey. These patches may form anywhere in the mouth, including the gums, cheeks, tongue, lips, or roof. It’s always a good idea to have anything unusual examined by a dentist or doctor.
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