The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Early detection greatly improves treatment success. While those over 45 are at higher risk, anyone should be aware of the signs and seek screening if they experience:
- Unusual patches: White or dark red spots on the lips or inside the mouth.
- Lumps or texture changes: Any abnormal growths or rough areas in the oral cavity.
- Persistent sores or bleeding: Canker sores that don’t heal, numb areas, or unexplained bleeding.
- Tongue or swallowing issues: Strange sensations, altered taste, or difficulty swallowing.
Regular screenings can help catch oral cancer early, improving outcomes and maintaining your overall health.
The Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer. Being aware of these risks can help with early prevention and detection:
- Tobacco use: Smoking or using tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, significantly raises your risk.
- Alcohol consumption: Heavy or even moderate drinking, especially when combined with tobacco use, increases the risk.
- HPV infection: Certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) are linked to oral cancer.
- Sun exposure: Excessive sun exposure without protection can heighten the risk, particularly for lip cancer.
- Diet: A diet lacking essential nutrients may contribute to a higher risk of oral cancer.
- Family history: Having relatives with oral cancer may increase your susceptibility.
- Gender: Oral cancer is more common in men than in women.
- Leukoplakia history: A previous diagnosis of leukoplakia (thick, white patches in the mouth) can indicate a higher risk.
Understanding these risk factors allows you to take proactive steps in protecting your oral health.
Prevention, detection, and treatment of oral cancer
A personalized approach is essential for managing oral cancer. Treatment varies based on severity, type, and location, making early detection and prevention crucial. By being proactive, you and your dentist can catch potential concerns early and develop the right treatment plan.
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
The goal of an oral cancer screening is to detect cancer or precancerous conditions early. During your exam, your dentist will carefully examine the inside of your mouth and under your tongue for red or white patches or unusual sores. They will also feel for lumps or irregular textures in your mouth and check your neck and throat for any noticeable swelling or abnormalities.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If concerning signs are found, further tests may be needed. Your dentist may perform a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is analyzed in a lab, or recommend imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs to confirm a diagnosis. If a tumour is detected, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy to effectively address the issue.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
You can lower your risk of oral cancer by making simple but impactful lifestyle choices. Scheduling regular dental check-ups allows for early detection, while avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption helps protect your oral health. Using UV-blocking lip balms can prevent sun damage to your lips, and maintaining a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables supports overall wellness. Additionally, checking your mouth regularly while brushing and flossing can help you spot any unusual changes early. By staying proactive, you can maintain a healthier smile and reduce your risk of developing oral cancer.
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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, it’s wise to request a screening during your regular dental exam. Additionally, if you notice any unusual patches, lumps, or sores in your mouth, scheduling an appointment for further evaluation is important.
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will thoroughly examine your lips, cheeks, gums, and all sides of your tongue. They will also feel for any lumps or irregular textures and assess your face, jaw, throat, and neck for any unusual swelling or tenderness.
To perform a self-check, wash your hands and stand in front of a mirror. Examine the roof of your mouth, lips, tongue, and gums. Pull your lips up and down to check behind them, and use gauze or a cotton pad to grip your tongue for a better view. Feel the inside of your mouth with your fingers, checking for colour changes, lumps, unusual textures, or tenderness. If you notice sores that haven’t healed after two weeks, contact your dentist.
Early mouth cancer often appears as small, painless patches that can be red, white, gray, or yellow, typically with red edges. These may develop on the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, or roof of the mouth. If you spot anything unusual, consult your dentist or doctor.
If you experience persistent sores, lumps, or patches that don’t heal, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Early evaluation can help identify potential concerns before they become more serious.
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent oral cancer, you can lower your risk by avoiding tobacco products, limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy diet, protecting your lips from excessive sun exposure, and attending regular dental check-ups for early detection.
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