Spotting the Warning Signs of Oral Cancer

Oral or mouth cancer could appear on the lips, tongue, gums, floor or roof of the mouth, or the inner lining of the cheeks. It affects around 58,500 Americans every year, with around 9,750 cases causing premature death.

As with most forms of cancer, early detection is vital for effective treatment and better outcomes. Kathryn Jodry, DDS, specializes in performing oral cancer screening to ensure patients receive prompt care.

Identifying oral cancer early means treatment options such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy are much more effective. In cases where cancer has spread to surrounding tissues or other areas, it becomes harder to isolate and treat. 

The five-year survival rates for localized oral cancer (confined to the lips, tongue, or floor of the mouth) range from 73% to 94%. However, these survival rates decrease significantly if cancer spreads to surrounding tissues. 

Warning signs of oral cancer 

While oral cancer symptoms can vary, if you experience any of the following for more than two weeks, you should come and see us: 

• A lump or growth in the mouth 
• Reddish or white patches in the mouth 
• Loose teeth without an apparent cause 
• Mouth or lip sores that don’t heal 
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing 
• Persistent mouth or throat pain 
• Ear pain not linked to an ear infection 
• Unexpected weight loss 
• Numbness in the tongue or mouth 

These symptoms don’t always indicate cancer and may result from other conditions, such as infections or allergies. However, it’s essential to consult with us to rule out serious issues. 

Causes of oral cancer 

Like other cancers, oral cancer arises from DNA mutations that promote abnormal cell growth and hinder natural cell death. While the exact cause of these mutations isn’t always clear, several factors increase your risk of developing oral cancer: 

Tobacco use

Smoking or chewing tobacco introduces carcinogens (substances that cause cancer) into the mouth, significantly increasing the risk of oral cancer. 

Alcohol consumption

Heavy alcohol use can heighten the risk of oral cancer, particularly in combination with tobacco use. 

Age

Your chance of getting oral cancer increases with age, with the average diagnosis occurring at 64. 

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

This sexually transmitted disease has strong links to certain types of oral cancer. 

Sun exposure

Sustained exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase the risk of lip cancer. 

Sex

Men are more than twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer. However, researchers don’t fully understand why. 

The importance of oral cancer exams 

Regular oral cancer screenings play a crucial role in early detection. 

During an exam, we inspect your mouth for sores, red or white patches, and other irregularities. We also press against the tissues in your mouth and surrounding areas (such as the neck and under the chin) to detect unusual lumps or abnormalities. Finally, we check for throat pain or difficulty swallowing. 

We may recommend regular follow-up visits to monitor changes if we find abnormal lesions or lumps. We may also perform a biopsy, taking a small section of the abnormal tissue and sending it to a lab for further analysis. 

If we refer you to a specialist, remember that this doesn’t necessarily mean you have oral cancer. It simply indicates a need for further investigation to ensure your health because early intervention prevents any issues from becoming severe. 

Reducing your risk of oral cancer

To lower your risk of oral cancer: 

• Avoid tobacco use and limit alcohol consumption 
• Protect your lips with sunscreen when out in the sun 
• Get vaccinated against HPV if eligible
• Attend regular dental checkups, including oral cancer screenings 

Regardless of your risk factors, routine oral cancer screenings are vital for early detection and peace of mind.

If you have concerns about oral cancer or it’s time for your regular dental visit, schedule an appointment by phone today or use the online inquiry form to contact us.