The risk factors for oral cancer
Oral cancer involves the abnormal growth of cells in areas like the lips, tongue, throat, or inside the mouth. When detected early, the chances of successful treatment are significantly higher. Although people over the age of 45 are at greater risk, anyone experiencing the symptoms below should consider a screening:
- Discolored patches inside the mouth or on the lips, often white or dark red
- Lumps, thickened areas, or unusual textures
- Canker sores that do not heal, numb areas, or frequent bleeding
- A tingling tongue, changes in taste, or difficulty swallowing
Certain habits, health conditions, and lifestyle choices increase your risk. These include:
- Smoking or tobacco use, including cigars and chewing tobacco
- Regular or heavy alcohol use, especially combined with tobacco
- Infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Excessive sun exposure, particularly without lip protection
- Poor nutrition or unhealthy eating habits
- A family history of oral cancer
- A history of leukoplakia, which are thick white patches inside the mouth
- Oral cancer tends to be more common in men
Prevention, detection, and treatment
Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and depend on the type, location, and severity of the suspected oral cancer.
Spotting early signs of cancer
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will check the inside of your mouth, under your tongue, and around your throat for signs of trouble. This includes looking for red or white patches, sores, or changes in tissue texture. The dentist may gently feel the inside of your mouth and the outside of your neck and jaw to check for lumps or swelling.
Diagnosis and treatment
If something concerning is found, your dentist may recommend further testing. This could include a biopsy, where a small piece of tissue is sent to a lab, or imaging tests such as X-rays, an ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRI. If cancer is diagnosed, treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy depending on the type and severity.
Prevention of oral cancer
There are several things you can do to reduce your risk:
- See your dentist regularly for exams and screenings
- Avoid tobacco products entirely
- Limit your alcohol consumption
- Use lip balms with sun protection and avoid prolonged sun exposure
- Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Check your mouth regularly for changes, and report any concerns to your dentist
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to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
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
Yes, especially if you have risk factors such as tobacco or alcohol use, HPV exposure, or family history. Even if you do not have symptoms, early detection makes a big difference. If you notice any unusual spots or changes in your mouth, book an appointment right away.
During a screening, your dentist will examine your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and the roof and floor of your mouth. They will gently feel for lumps or unusual textures inside your mouth and may also check your throat, jaw, and neck for signs of swelling or tenderness.
Start by washing your hands with soap and water. In front of a mirror, look at your lips, the roof of your mouth, tongue, and gums. Gently pull back your lips and use your fingers to feel the insides of your cheeks. You can use gauze or a cotton pad to hold and examine the sides and underside of your tongue. Check for any color changes, bumps, or spots that do not go away. If you notice anything unusual that has not healed after two weeks, contact your dentist.
It often appears as small, flat patches that may be red, white, gray, or yellow with red borders. These patches are usually painless and can show up on the lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums. If you see anything out of the ordinary, it is always best to have it checked by a dentist or doctor.
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