What are the First Signs of Oral Cancer? Read all Here in Detail

By: Dr. Rajan Sharma

First signs of oral cancer

It’s crucial to know what are the first signs of oral cancer in an individual. Oral cancer begins in the oral cavity which includes lips, the teeth, the gums, and the majority of the tongue. Not just that, the inside lining of the cheeks and the lips, floor, and bony roof of the mouth or palate gets affected by this debilitating disease. As per the American Cancer Society, around 54,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with oral cavity cancer or oropharyngeal cancer in 2021. This figure illustrates the prevalence of oral cancer in the country which will put a strain on the healthcare system in the coming decades. That’s why it is quite important for us to know information like what are the early stages of oral cancer or what are the early warning signs of oral cancer. In today’s informative article, we will inform our valued readers about the growing threat of oral cancer in Americans. 

What are the Early Stages of Oral Cancer?

It’s difficult to spot early signs of oral cancer and can go undiagnosed sometimes. That’s why dentists are now regularly including a brief oral cancer screening as part of the dental check-up. In the procedure,  your dentist would examine the mouth, lips, face, and neck for any signs of oral cancer. So make sure to visit your dentist regularly despite following the oral hygiene routine. To safeguard against oral cancer, you should know what are the early warning signs of oral cancer and bring any discomfort to your physician’s attention. 

What Can be the Early Symptoms of Oral Cancer

You should consult a doctor immediately when you exhibit oral cancer symptoms for more than 2 weeks. The signs and symptoms of oral cancer would differ from patient to patient but the common signs like mouth sores or pain won’t disappear soon. Also, oral cancer could appear as white or red spots on the tonsils, gums, or the lining of the mouth. 

Let’s Take a Look at What do the Early Signs of Mouth Cancer Look Like:

  1. Swelling in the neck
  2. Difficulty in swallowing or chewing food
  3. Trouble in the movement of jaw or tongue
  4. Lump in the cheek
  5. Bad breath 
  6. Weight loss
  7. Vocal change with sudden hoarseness in the voice
  8. One gets a feeling if something is caught in your mouth
  9. Persistent coughing
  10. Numbness in mouth 

Factors Behind Oral Cancer

What are the early warning signs of oral cancer is important to know and so is finding out the reasons behind the appearance of cancer. There has been plenty of research done but still unsure what causes cancer or what are the first signs of oral cancer. Cancers generally rear their head after severe damage or mutations in the genetic code that is responsible for cell growth and death. Let’s look at some of the factors responsible for oral cancer-

  1. Tobacco consumption
  2. Frequent consumption of liquor in copious amounts
  3. Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  4. Exposure to sun
  5. Frequent exposure to radiation

How to Reduce the Chances of Developing Oral Cancer:

Oral cancer is preventable if one follows your physician and dentist’s advice in totality. Firstly, never smoke or quit smoking immediately to reduce the chance of developing oral cancer. Other steps to follow are:

  1. Reduce exposure to the sun
  2. Use SPF lip balm
  3. A good healthy diet of fruits and vegetables
  4. Drinking moderate liquor
  5. Remove dentures at night while cleaning it daily\
  6. Practise a good oral hygiene routine  

Booking Appointment at a Dental Clinic Near You:

Book a free dental appointment today at Eon Clinic here or call us today at 800-250-3500! We will inform you in detail about what are the first signs of oral cancer or what can be the early symptoms of oral cancer.