
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer often starts with abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Early detection greatly improves treatment success. While those over 45 are at higher risk, anyone should consider screening if they’ve noticed any of these symptoms:
- Discoloured patches: White or dark red areas in your mouth or on your lips.
- Unfamiliar lumps: Unusual bumps or texture changes in your mouth.
- Persistent sores: Canker sores that donโt heal, numb areas, or constant bleeding.
- Changes in sensation: A strange feeling on your tongue, altered taste, or trouble swallowing.
The risk factors for oral cancer
There are several behaviours and conditions that are associated with a higher risk of oral cancer. These include:
- Smoking or using tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco
- Regular or heavy alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use
- Possible HPV infection in the mouth
- Excessive sun exposure
- Poor diet or unhealthy eating habits
- Family history of oral cancer
- Oral cancer is more common in men than women
- History of leukoplakia (thick, whitish patches inside the mouth)
Prevention, detection and treatment of oral cancer
Treatment is tailored to each individual, depending on the severity, type, and location of the cancer. Early detection is key to effective treatment and improved outcomes. Regular screenings and lifestyle adjustments can play a crucial role in prevention.
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
The purpose of an oral cancer screening is to detect cancer or precancerous conditions early. During the exam, your dentist will check for red or white patches or unusual sores inside your mouth and under your tongue. They will also feel for lumps or irregular textures in your mouth, throat, and neck.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If cancer signs are found during your screening, further tests like a biopsy, X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or an MRI may be recommended. If a tumour is confirmed, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the case.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
You can reduce your risk of oral cancer by taking action now. Regular dental checkups, quitting tobacco, and drinking alcohol in moderation are key. Protect your lips with U/V protective lip balm, maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and check your mouth during daily brushing and flossing for any unusual signs. Report any concerns to your dentist promptly.
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 risk factors for oral cancer, itโs wise to request a screening during your regular dental exam. If you’ve noticed a discoloured patch, unusual texture, lump, or sore in your mouth, it’s important to schedule an appointment to have it checked. Early detection can make a big difference.
Your dentist will examine your lips, cheeks, gums, and tongue, looking for any abnormal patches or sores. They’ll also feel for lumps or unusual textures inside your mouth, as well as check your face, jaw, throat, and neck for any lumps or tenderness.
Start by washing your hands with warm, soapy water. In front of a mirror, examine the roof of your mouth, lips, tongue, and gums. Pull your top lip up and bottom lip down to check behind them. Use gauze or a cotton pad to grip your tongue and check the sides and underside. Feel around your mouth for lumps, unusual textures, or tenderness, and look for any colour changes. If you have sores that haven’t healed after two weeks, contact your dentist.
Early mouth cancer may appear as small, painless, flat patches that can be red, white, gray, or yellow with red edges. These patches can develop anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and roof of the mouth. If anything looks or feels unusual, it’s best to have it checked by your doctor or dentist.
