Spot Early Signs of Oral Cancer

Detecting oral cancer in its early stages can be challenging as its symptoms are often subtle and easily missed. This type of cancer can emerge in multiple locations within the mouth, including the lips, inner cheeks, tongue, and gums, as well as the salivary glands and palate.

Fortunately, many dentists now include a brief oral cancer screening as part of their routine dental examinations. This thorough assessment encompasses a visual inspection of the entire oral cavity, lips, facial areas, and neck, aiming to identify any potential signs of cancer. This proactive approach underscores the importance of regular dental visits beyond just maintaining oral hygiene.

By staying committed to regular dental check-ups, individuals not only ensure the health of their teeth and gums but also enhance their chances of early cancer detection. It’s essential for everyone to familiarize themselves with the initial indicators of oral cancer to promptly alert healthcare professionals when necessary, facilitating timely intervention and effective management.

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer refers to the abnormal growth of cells in the oral cavity or mouth. It can occur in various parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, inner lining of the cheeks, gums, palate, and throat. Oral cancer typically begins as a small, painless lesion or sore that may go unnoticed initially. However, if left untreated, it can spread to surrounding tissues and other parts of the body, leading to serious complications. 

Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, sun exposure, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and a family history of oral cancer. Early detection and treatment are critical for improving outcomes and preventing the progression of the disease. Regular dental check-ups and awareness of potential symptoms are essential for timely diagnosis and intervention.

How To Recognize Oral Cancer: Early Signs

Recognizing oral cancer involves being attentive to various early signs and symptoms that may manifest in the mouth and surrounding areas. During your routine dental visits, it’s crucial to communicate any changes or abnormalities you’ve noticed. Here are some key indicators to watch out for:

Unusual Patches of Color
Keep a close watch on the inside of your mouth for any abnormal patches of red or white. These patches, known as leukoplakia (white patches) or erythroplakia (red patches), could indicate abnormal cell growth or precancerous lesions. While not all patches are cancerous, they warrant evaluation by a dental professional to rule out potential oral cancer.

Persistent Sores
Any sore in the mouth that bleeds easily or fails to heal within two weeks should be a cause for concern. Persistent sores, particularly those that do not respond to usual treatments or continue to grow, may be indicative of oral cancer. Seeking prompt evaluation by a dentist is essential for accurate diagnosis and timely management.

Changes in Texture
Noticeable changes in the texture of oral tissues, such as the presence of thick or hardened areas, or the development of lumps or bumps, should not be ignored. These changes could signify abnormal cell growth or tumor formation, highlighting the importance of a thorough examination by a dental professional.

Rough or Crusted Areas
The presence of rough, scaly, or crusted areas in the mouth that fail to resolve on their own may be signs of oral cancer. These areas may be accompanied by discomfort or irritation and should be evaluated promptly to rule out malignancies or precancerous conditions.

Unexplained Numbness
If you experience numbness or tingling sensations in the mouth, lips, or facial areas without a clear cause, it could signal nerve involvement due to oral cancer. Numbness may indicate tumor growth pressing on nerves or nerve damage caused by cancer treatment. Consulting with a dentist or healthcare provider is crucial for further evaluation and appropriate management.

Persistent Pain or Tenderness
Persistent pain or tenderness in the mouth, jaw, or throat that does not resolve with over-the-counter pain medications or home remedies should be assessed by a dental professional. Oral cancer can cause localized pain or discomfort, and identifying the underlying cause is essential for timely intervention and treatment.

Altered Bite Pattern
Changes in your bite pattern or the alignment of your teeth may indicate underlying issues affecting the jaw or oral structures. Oral cancer can lead to bone loss or changes in jaw function, resulting in alterations in how your teeth fit together when biting down. These changes should be evaluated by a dentist to determine the cause and appropriate management.

Difficulty with Oral Functions
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the tongue or jaw should raise concerns and prompt a dental evaluation. Oral cancer can affect oral function and mobility, resulting in difficulties with basic activities. Seeking timely assessment and intervention is crucial for maintaining oral health and function.

Sensation of Something in Throat
Sensations of something stuck in the throat or persistent throat discomfort may indicate throat or oral cancers. These symptoms may be accompanied by difficulty swallowing or persistent coughing. Consulting with a dentist or healthcare provider for further evaluation is necessary to rule out potential malignancies and ensure appropriate management.

Chronic Throat Pain
Chronic throat pain that persists despite attempts at alleviation warrants further investigation. Oral cancer can cause throat discomfort, hoarseness, or persistent sore throat. Seeking prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management, including ruling out oral cancer involvement.

Ear Symptoms

Oral cancers can sometimes cause referred pain or sensations in the ears, such as pain, ringing, or hearing difficulties. These symptoms may occur due to nerve involvement or inflammation in the oral or throat region. Discussing any unexplained ear symptoms with your dentist or healthcare provider is essential for comprehensive evaluation and management.

Regular preventive dental care plays a crucial role in the early detection and treatment of oral cancer. Schedule routine dental check-ups for professional cleanings and thorough examinations. 

When to Seek Medical Help for Oral Cancer

If you suspect you may have oral cancer, it’s important to seek prompt medical attention from a dentist or doctor. The Society of Behavioral Medicine highlights that any trained clinician can conduct a visual examination of the mouth to identify potential signs of oral cancer.

During your appointment, the healthcare professional will inquire about your symptoms, which may include mouth pain, difficulty swallowing, difficulty speaking, or unexplained weight loss. These symptoms can serve as important indicators of oral cancer and should not be ignored.

If the healthcare professional observes anything concerning during the examination, they may recommend further evaluation through a biopsy. This procedure may involve removing a small tissue sample from the suspicious area for laboratory testing to determine if cancerous cells are present. Additionally, they may collect cells from the affected area using a special brush for analysis. Early detection through thorough examination and biopsy can significantly improve treatment outcomes for oral cancer.

Conclusion

Early detection of oral cancer is crucial for successful treatment and improved outcomes. By recognizing the signs and symptoms, maintaining regular dental check-ups, and promptly seeking medical help when necessary, individuals can take proactive steps in safeguarding their oral health. Through collaboration with healthcare professionals and adherence to preventive measures, such as routine screenings and examinations, the risk of oral cancer can be minimized, enhancing overall well-being and quality of life.

Also Read: Oral Cancer Treatment & Its Cost in India