Signs of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer occurs twice as often in men as in women. It can affect the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, the floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. At-home oral cancer detection methods like self-checks and regular dental exams from your dentist in Fort Smith or dentist in Rogers can help detect oral cancer early so you can seek treatment.

People who smoke or use tobacco products, and people who use smokeless tobacco products, have an increased chance of developing oral cancer. Also, high-risk behaviors, such as extreme sun exposure, oral piercings, and excessive alcohol consumption increase the risk of oral cancer.

Signs That Show Oral Cancer

Mouth Sores that Don't Heal

If you've noticed a sore in your mouth that doesn't go away, it could be a symptom of oral cancer. Mouth sores can be noncancerous or cancerous. If you notice a tooth that hurts when biting down, bleeding gums, patches in the mouth, swelling, or lumps, see your 'dentist near me.'

White or Red Patches in Your Mouth

When oral cancer is caught early, treatment is often successful. If you notice red or white patches in your mouth that don't go away, then visit your dentist in Fort Smith or dentist in Rogers for a thorough dental exam. 

Chronic Sore Throat

A chronic sore throat doesn't always mean you have throat cancer, but it's still a good idea to have your mouth examined by your dentist Fort Smith or dentist Rogers. 

A sore throat that lasts longer than two weeks is a sign that you should see a doctor. It's possible that you have a strep infection, in which case antibiotics are needed. But if your sore throat doesn't go away with antibiotics, it may be a symptom of throat cancer.

Difficulty Chewing, Swallowing or Moving your Tongue

Your tongue is only about one inch long, but it has many important functions. The tongue helps you swallow, taste, and talk. It is also the largest muscle on your face.

When cancer spreads to other areas of the head and neck, patients may experience pain or stiffness in the jaw, neck, or throat. They may also have difficulty moving their tongue, chewing, or swallowing.

A Lump or Mass in your Neck

You may notice a lump or mass in your neck. This may be a sign of oral cancer, which affects the mouth, tongue, and throat. It often starts as a sore that bleeds easily and doesn't heal. 

Difficulty Moving your Jaw or Facial Muscles

When you try to eat or open your mouth, you may find it difficult to move your jaw or facial muscles. This can happen because oral cancer often involves the jaw, face, and neck.

Numbness in Your Face, Tongue, or Neck

Oral cancer often causes numbness in the face, tongue, and neck. You may notice this numbness when you try to eat, talk, or smile.

Get in touch with Parklane Family Dental for the best dental treatment and care. Call Dentist in Fort Smith, AR at (479) 782-0080 (Fort Smith, AR), (479) 484-0777 (Fort Smith, AR), or Dentist in Rogers, AR at (479) 273-0004 (Rogers, AR) to book an appointment or visit any of our locations.