The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer involves abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. While people over 45 years old are at greater risk, anyone can develop oral cancer. Consider screening if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Discolored patches in the mouth or on the lips, such as white or dark red spots.
- Unusual lumps or texture changes in the mouth.
- Canker sores that won’t heal, numb patches, or persistent bleeding.
- Unusual sensation in the tongue, changes in taste, or difficulty swallowing.
The Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Certain behaviors and conditions increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer, including:
- Smoking or consuming tobacco products (e.g., cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco).
- Heavy or moderate alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in the mouth.
- Excessive sun exposure, particularly to the lips.
- A poor diet or poor eating habits.
- A family history of oral cancer.
- Oral cancer is more common in men than in women.
- A history of leukoplakia (thick, white patches in the mouth).
Early oral cancer screenings can help identify these symptoms and risk factors, allowing for timely intervention and better outcomes.
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
Treatment for oral cancer is personalized based on the specific type, location, and stage of the cancer.
Early Detection of Oral Cancer
The primary goal of an oral cancer screening is to identify any signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth as early as possible. During the examination, your dentist will carefully inspect the inside of your mouth and underneath your tongue for red or white patches or sores. The dentist will also feel the tissues in your mouth to identify lumps or any unusual texture. Additionally, the dentist may check the external area of your throat and neck for lumps.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If any potential signs of cancer are found during your oral exam, further testing may be recommended. This could include a biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of tissue for lab analysis, or imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs. In cases of confirmed cancer, treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation may be necessary, depending on the specifics of the diagnosis.
Preventing Oral Cancer
Taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing oral cancer. To help safeguard your health:
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and screenings.
- Avoid using tobacco products and limit alcohol consumption.
- Be mindful of sun exposure, especially to the lips, and use UV-protective lip balms.
- Consume a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Practice regular self-examination of your mouth, checking for any changes or signs of concern, and bring any concerns to your dentist’s attention.
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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 a good idea to ask for an oral cancer screening during your regular dental exam. Additionally, if you notice any unusually coloured or textured patches in your mouth, or if you discover a lump or suspicious sore, it’s important to schedule an appointment for further evaluation.
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will carefully examine:
- Your lips
- The inside of your mouth, including your cheeks, gums, and all sides of your tongue
- They will also feel around for lumps or unusual textures in your mouth.
- Additionally, they may feel your face, jaw, throat, and neck for any lumps or tenderness.
To check for oral cancer at home, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands with warm soapy water.
- Stand in front of a mirror and examine the roof of your mouth, lips, tongue, and gums.
- Pull your top lip up and your bottom lip down to inspect the inside.
- Use a piece of gauze or a cotton pad to grip your tongue and check the sides and underside.
- Use your fingers to feel the inside of your mouth, looking for any colour changes, lumps, bumps, or unusual textures.
- If you notice any sores that haven’t healed after two weeks, let your dentist know.
In the early stages of oral cancer, you may notice small, usually painless flat patches that can appear in various colours:
- Red, white, gray, or yellow patches with red edges.
- These patches can appear anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, or the roof of your mouth.
As a good rule of thumb, if you notice anything that looks or feels unusual, it’s always best to have it checked by your dentist or doctor. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
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