Lips – May appear as persistent sores or lumps.
Tongue – Growths or pain on the top, sides, or underside.
Gums – Swelling, redness, or bleeding.
Inner Cheeks (Buccal Mucosa) – White or red patches, sores, or ulceration.
Floor of the Mouth – Pain, swelling, or difficulty speaking.
Main Risk Factors
Certain habits and conditions can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer:
Tobacco use – Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or smokeless tobacco.
Excessive alcohol – Especially when combined with smoking.
HPV infection – Certain strains are linked to mouth and throat cancers.
Prolonged sun exposure – Especially for lip cancer.
Age and gender – Most common in men over 40.
Poor oral hygiene – Chronic irritation can raise risk.
Family history of cancer – Genetics may play a role.
Early Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer often begins silently. However, being aware of the following warning signs can save lives:
Sores that do not heal within two weeks
White or red patches inside the mouth
Lumps, bumps, or thickened tissue
Pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or lips
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw
Loose teeth or dentures no longer fitting properly
Persistent bleeding or swelling of oral tissues
Tip: If you notice any of these symptoms, visit a dentist or doctor immediately.
The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups
Dentists play a key role in early detection. Experts recommend:
Dental visits twice a year – Even if you feel healthy.
Self-checks – Look for changes in your lips, tongue, gums, and cheeks.
Professional screening – Some dentists use special tools to detect precancerous conditions.
Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit, a leading oral cancer specialist, emphasizes: “Early detection saves lives. High-risk individuals, especially smokers and drinkers, should maintain routine screenings.”
Stages of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is classified into four stages:
Stage I – Small, localized tumors; highly treatable.
Stage II – Tumors larger than 2 cm but confined to the mouth.
Stage III – Larger growths, possibly with lymph node involvement.
Stage IV – Advanced cancer that may spread to surrounding tissues or organs.
The earlier the diagnosis, the better the chances of survival.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type, location, and stage of cancer. Common methods include:
Surgery – To remove tumors and sometimes lymph nodes.
Radiation therapy – Targets and destroys cancer cells.
Chemotherapy – Uses drugs to shrink or eliminate tumors.
Targeted therapy – Focuses on specific cancer cell mechanisms.
Reconstructive surgery – Restores function and appearance after tumor removal.
Often, a multidisciplinary team of dentists, oncologists, and surgeons works together for the best outcomes.
Prevention Tips
You can reduce your risk of oral cancer by making simple lifestyle changes:
Quit smoking and avoid chewing tobacco
Limit alcohol consumption
Practice good oral hygiene
Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Protect lips from sun exposure with SPF lip balm
Stay informed and alert to changes in your mouth
FAQ: Oral Cancer
- Can oral cancer be cured?
Yes, if detected early, oral cancer can often be cured with surgery or radiation. - Is oral cancer painful?
In the early stages, it may not cause pain. That’s why routine check-ups are essential. - What is the survival rate of oral cancer?
When caught early, the five-year survival rate is much higher compared to late-stage diagnosis. - Who should get screened regularly?
Smokers, heavy drinkers, people with HPV, and those with a family history of cancer should be extra vigilant.
Conclusion: Awareness Saves Lives
Oral cancer is a serious but preventable and treatable disease if detected early. By knowing the symptoms, reducing risk factors, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can protect your oral health.
Remember: your mouth is not just about your smile—it’s a window to your overall well-being. Pay attention to changes, and don’t delay seeking medical advice.