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. Although those over 45 are at the highest risk, oral cancer screenings are recommended for anyone experiencing the following symptoms:
- Discoloured patches in the mouth or on the lips, including white or dark red areas.
- Unusual lumps or changes in texture.
- Persistent canker sores, numb areas, or ongoing bleeding.
- Changes in taste, unusual sensations in the tongue, or difficulty swallowing.
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Several factors can increase the risk of developing oral cancer, including:
- Smoking or tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco.
- Heavy or moderate alcohol consumption, particularly when combined with tobacco use.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in the mouth.
- Excessive sun exposure, especially affecting the lips.
- Poor diet or unhealthy eating habits.
- Family history of oral cancer.
- Higher prevalence in men compared to women.
- History of leukoplakia, a thick, whitish patch inside the mouth.
Early detection saves lives. If you notice any symptoms or have risk factors, schedule an oral cancer screening today.
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
Spotting Early Signs of Oral Cancer
The primary goal of an oral cancer screening is to detect cancer or precancerous conditions at an early, more treatable stage. During the exam, your dentist will carefully inspect the inside of your mouth, including under your tongue, looking for red or white patches or unusual sores. They will also feel the tissues in your mouth for any lumps or irregular textures and may examine your throat and neck for external lumps or swelling.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If any suspicious signs are found during your screening, additional tests may be recommended, including a biopsy, where a small sample of the abnormal tissue is removed and examined in a lab, or imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRI scans to get a detailed view of the affected area. Treatment options depend on the type, severity, and location of the cancer. In most cases, a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy may be needed to remove tumours and prevent the spread of cancerous cells.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
You can take proactive steps to reduce your risk of oral cancer by maintaining regular dental check-ups for routine exams and early detection, avoiding tobacco products in all forms, and limiting alcohol consumption while drinking responsibly. Additionally, protecting your lips from direct sunlight with UV-protective lip balms, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and performing self-checks during daily brushing and flossing to spot any unusual changes are all effective preventive measures. It is also important to report any concerns or abnormalities to your dentist promptly. Taking preventive measures and maintaining regular dental visits are essential for reducing the risk of oral cancer and ensuring overall oral health.
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 of the risk factors for oral cancer, it’s wise to request an oral cancer screening during your regular dental exam. Additionally, if you notice an unusually coloured or textured patch in your mouth, a lump, or a persistent sore, you should schedule an appointment to have it evaluated as soon as possible.
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will thoroughly examine your lips and the inside of your mouth, including your cheeks, gums, and all sides of your tongue. They will also gently feel for any lumps, unusual textures, or abnormalities. The dentist may also check your face, jaw, throat, and neck for any lumps or areas of tenderness.
To perform a self-check for oral cancer, start by washing your hands thoroughly with warm soapy water. Stand in front of a well-lit mirror and examine the roof of your mouth, lips, tongue, and gums. Lift your top lip and lower your bottom lip to inspect behind them. To get a better grip on your tongue, you can use a piece of gauze or a cotton pad to check the sides and underside. Pay close attention to your gums and use your fingers to feel the inside of your mouth. You are looking for colour changes, lumps, bumps, unusual textures, or tenderness. If you notice any sores that have not healed after two weeks, contact your dentist for an evaluation.
In the early stages, mouth cancer often appears as small, flat patches that are usually painless. These patches may be red, white, grey, or yellow with red edges. They can occur anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and the roof of the mouth. As a general rule, it’s always a good idea to have any unusual-looking or feeling area checked by your dentist or doctor. Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.
What Our Patients are Saying
- Video testimonials
- Google reviews
Friendly and Professional Service
Feeling Safe During COVID-19
Above and Beyond Experience
