Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious and deadly disease that affects millions of people. In fact, the Oral Cancer Foundation estimates that someone in the United States dies every hour from oral cancer, but it is often curable if diagnosed and treated in the early stages. It is most often seen in people over the age of 40.

The biggest risk factors are tobacco and alcohol use, including chewing tobacco. HPV, a sexually transmitted wart virus, also increases the risk.

The symptoms of mouth or throat cancer include sores, lumps, or rough areas in the mouth. You may also have a change in your bite and difficulty chewing or moving your tongue or jaw.

Regular dental visits can help catch oral cancer early. You may ask your dentist whether an oral cancer exam is part of their usual checkup. If you notice any of the symptoms or have trouble chewing, swallowing, or moving your tongue or jaw, see your dentist. Learn more in an overview of oral cancer.


Symptoms of Oral Cancer

• Swellings/thickenings, lumps or bumps, rough spots/crusts/or eroded areas on the lips, gums, or other areas inside the mouth.
• The development of velvety white, red, or speckled (white and red) patches in the mouth.
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
• Unexplained numbness, loss of feeling, or pain/tenderness in any area of the face, mouth, or neck.
• Persistent sores on the face, neck, or mouth that bleed easily and do not heal within 2 weeks.
• A soreness or feeling that something is caught in the back of the throat.
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue.
• Hoarseness, chronic sore throat, or change in voice.
• Ear pain.
• A change in the way your teeth or dentures fit together.
• Dramatic weight loss.

Oral Cancer Images