The signs and symptoms of oral cancer
Oral cancer is characterized by abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. With early detection, oral cancers have a high rate of successful treatment. Those over age 45 face the greatest risk, but regardless of your age, you should consider an oral cancer screening if you have experienced any of the following symptoms:
- Discoloured patches in the mouth or on the lips, including white or dark red areas.
- Unfamiliar lumps or unusual changes in texture.
- Canker sores that will not heal, numb patches, or persistent bleeding.
- An unusual feeling tongue, change in sense of taste, or difficulty swallowing.
The risk factors for oral cancer
Several behaviours and conditions are linked to a higher risk of oral cancer. These include:
- Smoking or using tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco
- Heavy or moderately heavy alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco use
- Possible human papillomavirus (HPV) infection of the mouth
- Excessive sun exposure and a lifestyle involving frequent time in direct sunlight
- A poor diet or unhealthy eating habits
- A family history of oral cancer
- Oral cancer occurs more commonly in men than in women
- A history of leukoplakia (a thick, whitish coloured patch that develops inside the mouth)
Prevention, detection and treatment of oral cancer
Treatment will be planned on a case by case basis and will heavily depend on the severity, type and location of the suspected cancer.”
Spotting early signs of cancer
The goal of an oral cancer screening is to detect cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth as early as possible. During the exam, your dentist examines the inside of your mouth and under your tongue for red or white patches or unusual sores. Your dentist will also feel the tissues in your mouth to check for lumps or unusual textures, and may check the outside of your throat and neck as well.
Diagnosis and treatment
If signs of oral cancer are found during your screening, you may need further testing such as a biopsy, where a small sample of suspicious tissue is removed for lab analysis, or imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or an MRI. To remove confirmed tumours, treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
Prevention of oral cancer
You can take steps now to help lower your risk of oral cancer later. To help reduce your risk, see your dentist regularly for routine checkups, avoid tobacco products, drink alcohol in moderation, limit sun exposure and use U/V protective lip balm, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and check your mouth regularly during brushing and flossing for any signs or symptoms worth reporting to your dentist.
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to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and soft tissues, as well as 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 understand the full picture of your oral health and smile aesthetics, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most dentists recommend an oral cancer screening at every routine dental checkup, typically once or twice a year, as part of a comprehensive exam.
No, an oral cancer screening is quick and painless. Your dentist simply examines the tissues in your mouth, tongue, throat, and neck for any unusual signs.
Tobacco and alcohol use, prolonged sun exposure to the lips, and HPV infection are common risk factors. Regular screenings are especially important for those with these risk factors.
Warning signs include persistent mouth sores, red or white patches, unexplained bleeding, difficulty swallowing, and lumps in the mouth, throat, or neck that do not go away.
Yes, early detection through routine oral cancer screening greatly improves treatment outcomes, which is why regular dental checkups are so important.
If your dentist notices anything unusual, they may recommend further testing, such as a biopsy or imaging, to determine whether additional treatment is needed.
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