10 Warning Signs of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can slowly creep up on anybody, leaving you feeling scared and blindsided. Scary as it is, there are subtle warning signs that you can look out for that could save your life. 

Knowing oral cancer symptoms can help doctors detect cancer earlier, helping save your life. However, it’s important to remember that these signs don’t mean you have cancer. They mean it’s time to schedule an appointment for an exam to determine whether you have cancer. Always listen to a trusted medical professional instead of attempting to self-diagnose, especially regarding something as serious as cancer. 

Suspicious Lumps

A new lump or bump is one of the most tell-tale signs of oral cancer. These can pop up anywhere inside the mouth but are most common along the jawline. Run your fingers along your jawline, paying attention to areas that aren’t symmetrical. 

Also, check for lumps anywhere in the mouth, such as along the inside of your cheeks. A lump on your throat can also be a warning sign. You may notice a visible lump or have symptoms of a lump, like difficulty swallowing. 

Lesions

Lesions are another common warning sign that can easily be missed. Inspect the inside of your mouth with a light and magnifying mirror, if possible. A lighted, magnifying makeup mirror can work well for this. Persistent lesions, white patches, and red patches are all oral cancer symptoms. 

Change In Feeling

Many people notice a change in how they feel things inside their mouth. Numbness is particularly common, but not the only symptom. Some people see a tingling sensation or one that they describe as pins and needles. All of these can be symptoms of cancer. Schedule an appointment with an emergency dentist to determine the underlying cause of this common symptom. 

Other Common Symptoms to Look Out for:

The most apparent symptoms are common, but they usually aren’t the only symptoms present. Other symptoms patients may notice include, but aren’t limited to:

• Bad breath
• A change in voice, such as hoarseness
• Bad breath
• Problems wearing dentures (this may be due to a lump)
• Loose teeth
• Oral bleeding
• Pain in the mouth, neck, or ear

Schedule a Dentist Appointment with Highpoint Dental Medicine in Chalfont, PA!

In a world of googling medical advice, it’s common for people to self-diagnose or search for alternative remedies. However, these symptoms may not be caused by cancer. For example, loose teeth, bad breath, and oral bleeding can also indicate the early stages of gum disease. The only way to determine if cancer is present is to contact a professional specializing in oral cancer in Chalfont for an exam. 

A professional will examine your mouth, discuss your concerns, and order labs to determine if cancer cells are present in the area. They can also refer you to another professional or develop a treatment plan if your symptoms aren’t due to cancer. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.