Posted on 5/15/2025 by Singing River Dentistry Madison
Oral cancer is a serious disease that can affect anyone. It's important to be aware of the symptoms so you can get early diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we'll discuss the most common symptoms of oral cancer and what you can do if you notice any of them.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the mouth. It can occur on the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and the hard palate. Oral cancer is relatively rare, but it can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early.
What are the Most Common Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
The most common symptoms of oral cancer include:
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A sore or lump in the mouth that doesn't heal: This is the most common symptom of oral cancer. The sore may be white, red, or a combination of both. It may be painful or painless.
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A white or red patch in the mouth: These patches are called leukoplakia and erythroplakia, respectively. They are not always cancerous, but they can be a sign of precancerous changes.
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Pain in the mouth or ear: This pain may be constant or intermittent. It may be sharp or dull.
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Difficulty swallowing or speaking: This may be due to a tumor in the mouth or throat.
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Numbness or tingling in the mouth: This may be due to nerve damage caused by a tumor.
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Loose teeth: This may be due to bone loss caused by a tumor.
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Swelling of the jaw: This may be due to a tumor in the lymph nodes.
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A change in the way your dentures fit: This may be due to a tumor in the mouth or throat.
What Should You Do if You Notice Any of These Symptoms?
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to see a dentist or doctor right away. They will be able to examine your mouth and determine if you need any further tests.
Can Oral Cancer Be Prevented?
There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing oral cancer, including:
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Quitting smoking: Smoking is the leading cause of oral cancer.
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Limiting alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can also increase your risk of oral cancer.
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Eating a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce your risk of developing oral cancer.
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Getting regular dental checkups: Regular dental checkups can help detect oral cancer early when it is most treatable.
What is the Treatment for Oral Cancer?
The treatment for oral cancer will depend on the stage of the cancer and your overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Conclusion
Oral cancer is a serious disease, but it is treatable if it is diagnosed early. If you notice any of the symptoms of oral cancer, be sure to see a dentist or doctor right away. By taking steps to reduce your risk of developing oral cancer and getting regular dental checkups, you can help protect yourself from this disease.
Additionally
It's also important to note that oral cancer can sometimes be asymptomatic, meaning there are no noticeable symptoms. This is why it's so important to see your dentist regularly for checkups. During these checkups, your dentist will examine your mouth for any signs of oral cancer, including precancerous lesions.
If you have any questions or concerns about oral cancer, please talk to your dentist. They can provide you with more information and help you decide what steps to take.
About Us - Madison, AL | Singing River Dentistry Singing River Dentistry is a patient-centered dental practice, devoted to helping patients of all ages improve their oral and overall health. Call us! Singing River Dentistry Madison, 7559 Hwy 72 W, Suite 105, Madison, AL 35758 | 256-562-4001 | madison.singingriverdentistry.com | 10/29/2025 | Related Phrases: dentist Madison AL |
Oral cancer is a serious disease that can affect anyone. It's important to be aware of the symptoms so you can get early diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we'll discuss the most common symptoms of oral cancer and what you can do if you notice any of them.