The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat can indicate oral cancer. When caught early, treatment success rates are much higher. While individuals over 45 are at higher risk, anyone experiencing the following symptoms should get screened:
- White or dark red patches inside the mouth or on the lips.
- Lumps, rough spots, or unusual tissue changes.
- Canker sores that don’t heal, numb areas, or ongoing bleeding.
- Strange tongue sensations, changes in taste, or trouble swallowing.
The Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Several lifestyle choices and medical conditions can contribute to a higher likelihood of developing oral cancer, such as:
- Using tobacco in any form, including smoking and chewing.
- Regular or excessive alcohol use, particularly in combination with tobacco.
- Possible HPV infection affecting the mouth.
- Long-term sun exposure, which may increase the risk for lip cancer.
- Poor nutrition or unhealthy dietary habits.
- A family history of oral cancer.
- Men being more likely to develop oral cancer than women.
- A history of leukoplakia, which appears as thick, white patches inside the mouth.
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
Oral cancer screenings aim to catch cancer or precancerous changes as early as possible. During an exam, your dentist will check the inside of your mouth and under your tongue for any red or white patches or unusual sores. They will also examine the texture of the tissues by feeling for lumps inside the mouth, as well as checking the throat and neck for any irregularities.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If anything suspicious is found during the screening, further tests may be needed, such as a biopsy to analyze a tissue sample or imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs. If cancer is confirmed, treatment options may include surgery to remove tumours, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the type, severity, and location of the disease.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
There are several ways to lower your chances of developing oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups help with early detection, while avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption can significantly reduce risk. Protecting your lips from sun exposure with UV-blocking lip balm, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and routinely inspecting your mouth for unusual changes can all contribute to prevention. If you notice anything concerning, inform your dentist promptly.
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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
Individuals with higher risk factors for oral cancer should consider requesting a screening during their routine dental check-ups. The presence of an unusual patch, lump, or sore that doesn’t heal is a good reason to schedule an examination as soon as possible.
A thorough examination of the mouth includes inspecting the lips, inner cheeks, gums, and tongue from all angles. Hands-on assessment is also performed to detect any lumps, texture changes, or irregularities. The face, jaw, throat, and neck may also be checked for any swelling or tenderness.
Clean hands with warm water and soap before starting. Standing in front of a mirror, examine the inside of the mouth, including the lips, gums, tongue (top, sides, and underneath), and the roof of the mouth. Pulling back the lips provides a better view, and a piece of gauze or cotton can help hold the tongue in place while checking. Running fingers along the inner cheeks and gums can help detect lumps, rough spots, or other abnormalities. Any sore lasting more than two weeks should be brought to a dentist’s attention.
Flat, painless patches in shades of red, white, grey, or yellow with a reddish outline can be early indicators of oral cancer. These abnormalities can develop anywhere inside the mouth, including the tongue, lips, gums, inner cheeks, and roof of the mouth. Any unusual changes should be examined by a healthcare professional.
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