Hi, my name is Dr. Ro. Have you ever had a weird sore in your mouth and Googled it, then totally freaked out thinking it might be cancer? Don't worry, you're not alone. As a dentist, I get this question all the time, and it's important to talk about it. Today, we're going to discuss oral cancer: what it is, what it looks like, how to catch it early, and most importantly, how to protect yourself. Let's get into it. Here are some facts. Oral cancer represents 3% of all cancers in the U.S. Men are more than twice as likely to develop it than women.
What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is a disease where abnormal cells grow in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat. These cells can form tumors or become ulcerated and dangerous if not caught early.
What causes oral cancer?
The biggest culprits are smoking, tobacco, heavy alcohol use, too much sun on the lips, and certain strains of the HPV virus. In some cases, oral cancer can occur even without clear risk factors.
What are the early signs of oral cancer?
Early signs of oral cancer include sores in the mouth that don't heal, red or white patches, a lump in your cheek, or even changes in how your teeth fit together. If anything in your mouth feels different or doesn't go away, get it checked out.
What are the most common symptoms of oral cancer?
The most common symptoms of oral cancer are pain that doesn't go away, difficulty chewing or swallowing, numbness in the mouth or lips, and a sore throat that lasts for weeks. You might also notice swelling, bleeding, or loose teeth.
What does oral cancer look like in its early stages?
In its early stages, oral cancer might look like a flat, painless sore or patch that is red, white, or even mixed in color. It might also be a small lump or bump that you didn't notice before. These are more likely to appear on the sides of the tongue, floor of the mouth, under the tongue, inside of the cheeks, the roof of the mouth, and back of the throat.
How is oral cancer screening done?
The screening involves looking closely at your lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and throat. I sometimes use light and feel around your neck and jaw to check for lumps or swelling. It's quick, painless, and part of your regular checkup. If I see something suspicious, I refer you to an oral surgeon for a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Early detection is absolutely critical when it comes to oral cancer. When caught early, the chances of successful treatment are much higher. That's why regular dentist visits and checkups are so important. Your mouth tells a story and I'm here to help you listen to it. If something feels off, don't wait. Come see me or your local dentist. Early action can save lives. I'm Dr. Ro, and your smile is my mission.