The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. With early detection, treatment is highly successful. While people over forty five are at the highest risk, anyone experiencing the following symptoms should consider oral cancer screening:
- Discoloured patches in the mouth or on the lips, such as white or dark red areas
- Unfamiliar lumps or changes in texture
- Canker sores that don’t heal, numb patches, or persistent bleeding
- Changes in tongue sensation, taste, or difficulty swallowing
The Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Certain behaviours and conditions increase the risk of developing oral cancer, including:
- Smoking or using tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco)
- Heavy or regular alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use
- HPV infection in the mouth
- Excessive sun exposure
- Poor diet or eating habits
- Family history of oral cancer
- Higher prevalence in men compared to women
- History of leukoplakia (thick, whitish patches inside the mouth)
Routine screenings can help detect oral cancer early, improving the chances of successful treatment.
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
The main goal of an oral cancer screening is to catch cancer or precancerous conditions early. During the 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 feel the tissues inside your mouth, throat, and neck for lumps or changes in texture.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If your dentist detects any signs of oral cancer, they may recommend further testing such as a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken for lab analysis, or imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or an MRI. Treatment may involve surgery to remove the tumour, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the severity, type, and location of the cancer.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
Taking proactive steps now can reduce your risk of oral cancer in the future. Regular dental check-ups are essential, as they allow for early detection of potential issues, while limiting tobacco use and moderating alcohol consumption further lowers your risk. Protecting your lips with U/V-protective lip balm guards against sun damage, and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables promotes a healthy immune system and oral health. During your daily brushing and flossing, take a moment to check for unusual spots or symptoms, and report any changes to your dentist promptly. These simple habits can help keep your smile healthy for years to come.
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 wise to ask for a screening during your regular dental exam. If you notice any unusual patches, lumps, or sores in your mouth, schedule an appointment to have them checked.
Your dentist will examine your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and the inside of your mouth. They’ll also feel around your face, jaw, throat, and neck for any lumps, unusual textures, or tenderness.
Start by washing your hands with warm, soapy water. In front of a mirror, inspect the roof of your mouth, lips, gums, and all sides of your tongue. Use a cotton pad or gauze to help grip your tongue for a better look underneath. Feel inside your mouth with your fingers, checking for lumps, bumps, or changes in texture or colour. If you have any sores that don’t heal after two weeks, notify your dentist.
Early signs of mouth cancer often appear as small, flat patches that can be red, white, gray, or yellow with red edges. These patches can occur on the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, or roof of the mouth. If something looks or feels off, it’s always best to get it checked by your doctor or dentist.
It is recommended to have an oral cancer screening during your routine dental exams, which typically occur every 6 to 12 months. If you have higher risk factors—such as smoking, heavy alcohol use, or a history of oral cancer—your dentist may suggest more frequent screenings.
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will visually examine the inside of your mouth, including your tongue, gums, and cheeks, for any unusual patches or sores. They will also feel around your jaw, throat, and neck for lumps or abnormalities. The screening is quick, painless, and can detect early signs of cancer or precancerous conditions.
Google Verified Patient Reviews
