The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer results from abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. While individuals over 45 are at greater risk, anyone experiencing the following symptoms should seek an oral cancer screening:
- Discoloured patches in the mouth or on the lips, particularly white or dark red areas.
- Unfamiliar lumps or unusual changes in texture.
- Canker sores that won’t heal, numb patches, or persistent bleeding.
- Changes in taste, an unusual feeling on the tongue, or difficulty swallowing.
The Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Certain behaviours and conditions are linked to a higher risk of developing oral cancer:
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or using tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco.
- Alcohol Consumption: Heavy or moderately heavy drinking, especially when combined with tobacco use.
- HPV Infection: Potential human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in the mouth.
- Sun Exposure: Excessive sun exposure, particularly for individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors.
- Poor Diet: Nutritional deficiencies or poor eating habits.
- Family History: A family history of oral cancer.
- Gender: Oral cancer is more common in men than in women.
- Leukoplakia: A history of leukoplakia, which involves thick, whitish patches inside the mouth.
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
Oral cancer screenings focus on identifying potential cancers or precancerous conditions in your mouth at an early stage. During the exam, your dentist will carefully examine the inside of your mouth and under your tongue for unusual sores, red or white patches, or any irregularities. They will also feel for lumps or changes in texture within the mouth, and may examine your throat and neck externally for any abnormalities.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If your dentist detects concerning signs during the screening, additional diagnostic steps may be necessary. This might include a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken for lab testing, or imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, or an MRI. If cancer is confirmed, treatment options like surgery to remove the tumour, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy may be recommended based on the location and severity of the condition.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
Taking proactive measures can significantly lower your risk of oral cancer. Regular dental exams are crucial, as they often include screenings for early detection. Avoiding tobacco products and limiting alcohol consumption are important lifestyle choices. Protecting your lips from UV exposure with lip balms and being mindful of your sun exposure can also help. Maintaining a nutritious diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables supports overall oral health. Additionally, make it a habit to check your mouth during your daily oral care routine, and promptly report any unusual symptoms to your dentist.
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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 an oral cancer screening during your routine dental exam. Additionally, if you notice any unusually coloured or textured patches, lumps, or persistent sores in your mouth, you should schedule an appointment to have them evaluated promptly.
Dentists conduct thorough examinations of your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. They will carefully inspect for irregular textures, discolouration, or unusual sores. They also feel for lumps or tenderness in your mouth, jaw, face, throat, and neck to identify any abnormalities.
Start by washing your hands with warm, soapy water. Using a mirror, inspect the inside of your mouth, including the roof, tongue, lips, and gums. Pull your top lip up and bottom lip down to check underneath. Use gauze or a cotton pad to grip and check all sides of your tongue, including the underside. Look for colour changes, unusual textures, lumps, or tender spots, and feel inside your mouth with your fingers for anything unusual. If you notice sores that haven’t healed after two weeks, inform your dentist.
Early signs of oral cancer may include small, flat patches that are often painless. These patches can be red, white, gray, or yellow with red edges and may appear anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, or roof of the mouth. Any unusual changes should be checked by a dentist or doctor as soon as possible.
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