Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer involves abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Early detection is key, as oral cancers can often be successfully treated when caught early. While those over 45 are at higher risk, anyone should consider an oral cancer screening if they experience any of the following:
- Discoloured patches in the mouth or on the lips, especially white or dark red.
- Unfamiliar lumps or changes in texture.
- Persistent canker sores, numb spots, or ongoing bleeding.
- Changes in the feel of the tongue, taste, or difficulty swallowing.
- 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 alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in the mouth.
- Excessive sun exposure, particularly affecting the lips.
- A poor diet or poor eating habits.
- Family history of oral cancer.
- Being male—oral cancer is more common in men.
- A history of leukoplakia (thick, white patches in the mouth).
Early detection and awareness of these risk factors can help in the prevention and treatment of oral cancer. Regular screenings and making healthy lifestyle choices are important for maintaining oral health.
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
Regular Oral Cancer Screenings are essential for catching any early signs of cancer when treatment is most effective. During a screening, your dentist will examine your mouth for unusual patches or sores and may check the tissues in your neck and throat. This quick, non-invasive check-up can be an important step in proactive health care.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If something suspicious is found, your dentist may suggest further testing, like a biopsy or imaging, to get a better understanding. Depending on the findings, treatment options might include surgery, radiation, or other methods to effectively address the issue.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
Taking small steps can make a big difference. Routine teeth cleanings help your dentist spot any early concerns and keep your oral health in check. Additionally, reducing alcohol, avoiding tobacco, using UV-protective lip balm, and maintaining a balanced diet all play a role in prevention. During your daily brushing, do a quick check in your mouth—if anything feels off, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist. These simple habits go a long way in keeping your mouth healthy.
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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
If you have any risk factors for oral cancer, such as tobacco use or heavy alcohol consumption, it’s a good idea to request a screening during your regular dental exam. Additionally, if you’ve noticed any unusual patches, lumps, or sores in your mouth, scheduling an appointment to have it checked is highly recommended.
Your dentist will carefully examine your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth for any abnormal patches or lumps. They’ll also feel around your face, jaw, throat, and neck for any lumps or areas of tenderness.
To perform a self-check, wash your hands thoroughly. Using a mirror, examine your lips, tongue, gums, and the roof of your mouth. Gently pull your lips up and down to inspect behind them, and use a gauze or cotton pad to help grip your tongue to check its sides and underside. Feel around the inside of your mouth for any lumps, unusual textures, or tenderness. If you have any sores that haven’t healed after two weeks, contact your dentist.
Early signs may appear as small, flat, usually painless patches that are red, white, grey, or yellow with red edges. These patches can form anywhere in the mouth, including on the lips, gums, cheeks, and tongue. It’s always best to have anything unusual checked by your dentist or doctor as early detection leads to better outcomes.
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