A General Dentist Discusses Oral Cancer Symptoms

Oral cancer is a condition that affects the mouth, gums, inner lining of the cheeks, and tongue. The condition can cause different symptoms, which vary based on the lesion's location and how far it has progressed.

Symptoms of oral cancer

When patients visit the dentist for a routine checkup, the dentist is also on the lookout for anything unusual in the mouth, such as indications of oral cancer that may need an additional examination or testing. Oral cancer can present as malignancies of the mouth, throat, and esophagus. While there are many obvious indications of oral cancer, there are also some less obvious symptoms patients should know and discuss with their dentist.

Discoloration and sores on the neck, gums, tongue and other areas of the mouth are two of the most frequent symptoms of oral cancer. Although the tongue will normally change color after drinking or eating pigmented food, persistent discoloration that cannot be explained should be brought to the dentist's attention.

Any bleeding lesions that fail to heal within a reasonable period should be treated with caution. Oral cancer may be detected by white or red spots in the mouth, but it is also essential to rule out other causes. A persistent white coating on the tongue, for example, may suggest thrush, which is readily treated with antifungals. Keep an eye out for unusual discomfort, lumps, or numb areas in the mouth and tongue.

A persistent sensation of something in the back of the throat is one of the less noticeable signs of oral cancer. A persistent sore throat or hoarse voice that is not accompanied by other symptoms of sickness or difficulty chewing or swallowing should be investigated, as well. Patients need to seek medical help if they are having difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Several of these oral cancer symptoms may be due to other, less serious reasons, so it is always a good idea to tell the dentist about any odd symptoms. The sooner oral cancer is discovered, the higher the chances of survival. Although the dentist will conduct basic checks at a regular examination and may even use specific diagnostic equipment to screen for oral cancer, it is necessary to note any new or unexpected changes between appointments.

An additional point to note

Oral cancer is diagnosed step-by-step, which usually starts with a dentist noticing an anomaly in the mouth or throat during a physical exam. If this is the case, or if you have one or more symptoms that may indicate oral cancer, the healthcare provider will refer you to a professional specializing in illnesses of the mouth and throat.

Diagnosing oral cancer early is crucial to treating it. The good news is that, despite the absence of an approved screening test or guideline, oral cancer is becoming more widely recognized.

The bottom line

Patients are also advised to do self-exams regularly and be proactive in arranging an appointment as soon as they notice a symptom, such as a new lump or sore in the mouth or throat.

Request an appointment here: https://www.nolanriverdentalcenter.com or call Nolan River Dental Center at (817) 517-6453 for an appointment in our Cleburne office.

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