Oral cancer, or mouth cancer, can occur anywhere in the mouth, on the surface of the tongue, lips, inside the cheek, in the gums, in the roof and floor of the mouth, in the tonsils, or in the salivary glands.
What you should know about oral cancer
Oral cancer most often appears as a sore (lesion) or a growth (tumour) in your mouth that doesn’t go away. Early signs of oral cancer can be subtle and easily missed. Regular check-ups with your dentist are crucial, as they may identify early signs.
Signs and symptoms of oral cancer
Signs and symptoms include:
- Patches on the lining of the mouth or tongue, usually red or red and white.
- Mouth ulcers or sores that do not heal.
- Swelling that persists for over three weeks.
- A lump or thickening of the skin or lining of the mouth.
- Pain when swallowing or chewing.
- Loose teeth for no apparent reason
- Poorly fitting dentures.
- Jaw pain or stiffness.
- Sore throat.
- A sensation that something is stuck in the throat.
- Painful tongue.
- Hoarse voice and pain in the neck or ear that does not go away.
Having any of these symptoms does not mean a person has mouth cancer, but it is worth checking with a healthcare professional.
Factors influencing oral cancer
- Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless tobacco products significantly increases the risk.
- Alcohol consumption: Heavy and regular alcohol use is a major risk factor, especially when combined with tobacco use.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, are linked to oropharyngeal cancers.
- Age: The risk increases with age, particularly in people over 50.
- Gender: Men are more than twice as likely to develop oral cancer than women.
- Sun exposure: Excessive sun exposure to the lips can increase the risk of lip cancer.
- Family history: A family history of cancer can contribute.
- Weakened Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems may have a higher risk.
- Poor oral hygiene: Chronic irritation from rough teeth, dentures, or fillings can contribute to the risk.
Prevention tips
- Avoid tobacco products.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Protect your lips from excessive sun exposure.
- Get vaccinated against HPV.
Dr Christiaan Slabbert
Dentist at Intercare Mall@55
Reviewed: July 2024
