The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer involves abnormal cell growth in areas such as the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it’s important to be aware of the signs, especially if you’re over 45 or experiencing any of the following:
- Discoloured patches in the mouth or on the lips (white or dark red)
- Unfamiliar lumps or changes in texture
- Persistent canker sores, numb patches, or continuous bleeding
- Changes in taste, difficulty swallowing, or a strange sensation in the tongue
The Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Certain behaviours and conditions increase the risk of developing oral cancer, including:
- Smoking or using tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco
- Heavy or regular alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use
- Potential HPV (human papillomavirus) infection in the mouth
- Excessive sun exposure
- Poor diet or unhealthy eating habits
- Family history of oral cancer
- Oral cancer is more common in men than women
- History of leukoplakia (a thick, white patch inside the mouth)
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
The main purpose of an oral cancer screening is to detect cancer or precancerous conditions early. During the exam, your dentist will thoroughly inspect the inside of your mouth, including under your tongue, to check for any red or white patches or unusual sores. They will also feel the tissues in your mouth, throat, and neck for lumps or changes in texture that may indicate a problem.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If signs of cancer are found during your screening, your dentist may recommend further tests, such as a biopsy to examine suspicious tissue or imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs. Depending on the severity, type, and location of the cancer, treatment could involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy to remove or target the tumour.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
You can reduce your risk of developing oral cancer by taking several preventive steps. Regular dental exams are crucial, as they allow for the early detection of any issues. It’s important to avoid tobacco products and consume alcohol in moderation, as both habits are linked to an increased risk of oral cancer. Additionally, protecting your lips from excessive sun exposure with UV-protective lip balm, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and being mindful of any changes in your mouth during your daily brushing and flossing routine will further help reduce your risk. If you notice anything unusual, it’s essential to bring it to your dentist’s attention as soon as possible.
By taking these precautions and staying proactive about your oral health, you can significantly lower your chances 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 risk factors for oral cancer, it’s a good idea to request a screening during your regular dental exam. If you’ve noticed any unusual patches, lumps, or sores in your mouth, it’s important to schedule an appointment to have them checked out as soon as possible.
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will examine your lips, cheeks, gums, and all sides of your tongue for any abnormalities. They will also feel for any lumps or unusual textures in your mouth, face, jaw, throat, and neck to check for tenderness or unusual growths.
To self-check, wash your hands thoroughly, then 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 a piece of gauze or a cotton pad to help you check the sides and underside of your tongue. Feel the insides of your mouth for any lumps, colour changes, unusual textures, or tenderness. If you have a sore that hasn’t healed after two weeks, contact your dentist.
In the early stages, mouth cancer may appear as small, usually painless, flat patches that can be red, white, gray, or yellow with red edges. These patches can occur anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, or roof of the mouth. If you notice anything unusual, it’s always best to have it checked by your dentist or doctor.
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