Did any of your family members have oral cancer? If so, you may be wondering, “What are the signs of oral cancer to look for?’’ Family history is a factor, but other causes exist. The ADA advises dentists to perform a conventional visual and tactile exam in all adult patients and to biopsy or refer suspicious lesions—this is not tied to a specific age. Oral cancer can be fatal if not found and treated early.
Read this blog to find out the signs and symptoms.
Signs of Oral Cancer to Look Out for
Oral cancer can be treatable when found early. During routine dental visits, we examine your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and the floor/roof of your mouth for any changes. If something looks suspicious, we’ll either biopsy it or refer you promptly.
If you notice any of the following for more than two weeks, please contact us or your doctor:
- A sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal
- Red (erythroplakia) or white (leukoplakia) patches, or mixed red/white areas
- A lump, thickening, or rough area in the mouth or on the lip
- Pain in the mouth or throat that doesn’t go away
- Trouble chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw or tongue
- Numbness of the tongue or lip
- Loose teeth, ill-fitting dentures, or jaw swelling/pain without a clear cause
- Painless enlarged lymph nodes in the neck that don’t resolve.
- If any of these persist beyond two weeks, get evaluated.
Who is at higher risk?
The strongest risk factors are tobacco use (including smokeless tobacco) and alcohol, especially together. HPV is a major driver of cancers in the oropharynx (back of the throat), while sun exposure contributes to lip cancer. Age, certain chronic oral conditions, and immunosuppression also play roles.
When to Call for Help?
Get help from a dental expert right away if you see any of the following:
- Any patch, lump, or sore that lasts more than two weeks
- Changes in your voice, swallowing, or mouth movements
- Recurring mouth pain or bleeding
- Swelling or paralysis in the throat or jaw without a known cause
- Red or white patches; unhealed ulcers
- Visiting a dentist or oral surgeon early allows for a prompt and less invasive diagnosis.
The Last Message
Unhealed ulcers, lesions, or patches may be early signs of oral cancer. Even without visible symptoms, yearly screenings support early detection and treatment. Schedule your screening at Lake Elsinore Dentistry. Contact us at (951) 579-1010 for more information about our dental services.