About 54,000 Americans (and 450,000 people worldwide) are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Oral cancer, sometimes called mouth cancer, refers to any cancerous tissue growth located in the oral cavity, including the lips and cheeks.
Because oral cancer can spread quickly, our team here at Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial & Impact Surgery offers oral cancer screenings. Early detection is important for successful treatment of oral cancers.
Here are the top five signs of oral cancer and what you can expect if you notice any of them.
1. A white or red patch inside your mouth
White patches, officially called leukoplakia, that develop on your gums or inside of your cheeks can be signs of oral cancer. If you see a white patch, however, know that not all white patches indicate the presence of cancer. Only a biopsy can determine any abnormal changes in the cells.
If the patch is red, it’s called erythroplakia, and it generally forms on your tongue or on the bottom of your mouth. This is generally a precancerous lesion.
Oral cancer can also present as a sore that just won’t heal. This includes spots and lesions on your lips, too. The takeaway: any lesion should be inspected because they could be precancerous.
2. Loose teeth
If your tooth is loose without any apparent cause (such as a sports injury), it could be a sign of oral cancer. Regardless, a loose adult tooth should always receive dental care. Even if oral cancer is not present, you can still benefit from swift care to help preserve your tooth.
3. A lump inside your mouth
Lumps and bumps are the most well-known signs of any cancer, and abnormal bumps can appear in your oral cavity, too. This includes the insides of your cheeks, the roof of your mouth, your tongue, your lips, and the floor of your mouth.
4. Pain
Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t quite right. Sometimes oral pain can develop as a result of an infection or tooth sensitivity or a cavity, but it can also be a sign of cancer. This includes pain in your mouth, ear aches (because the ear and throat are connected), and a sore throat.
5. Difficulty swallowing
Depending on where the cancerous lesions are and how big they are, you might find it harder to eat, speak, chew, or even swallow comfortably. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek dental care.
What if you notice any of these red flags?
It can be overwhelming and even scary if you notice any of these signs of oral cancer. However, know that swift care and early detection give you the best chances of a successful treatment. For example, early detection (meaning the cancerous lesions haven’t spread beyond the localized area) in the lip yields a 94% 5-year survival rate.
If we detect any abnormal lesions or sores during your exam, we may suggest a biopsy.
What to expect during your biopsy
A biopsy is a quick, in-office procedure that is used to determine if your cells are normal, cancerous, or precancerous. During your oral biopsy, a small piece of the affected tissue is removed. You’ll remain comfortable thanks to a local anesthetic. Afterward, we provide you with any post-biopsy instructions.
Your results will dictate your next steps, but rest assured, we’ll be here to answer any questions. To schedule an oral cancer screening, call the location of your choice. You may also schedule an appointment online.