What are the signs of oral cancer, and how is it detected?

What Are the Signs of Oral Cancer, and How Is It Detected?

At Martin Dentistry, Dr. Matt Martin, Dr. Stephanie Martin, Dr. Lindsey Garrison, and Dr. Lynn Marshall prioritize not only the health of your teeth and gums but also the overall health of your mouth. One critical aspect of oral health is understanding and being vigilant about oral cancer, a condition that affects thousands of people each year. Early detection is essential for successful treatment, which is why recognizing the signs of oral cancer and knowing how it is detected is so important.

Understanding Oral Cancer

Oral cancer includes cancers of the mouth and throat, and it can appear on the lips, tongue, gums, the floor or roof of the mouth, and even the inner lining of the cheeks. Like other cancers, oral cancer begins when cells grow uncontrollably and form tumors, often as a result of genetic mutations triggered by environmental or lifestyle factors.

Common Signs of Oral Cancer

Detecting oral cancer early can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Here are some key symptoms to look out for:

• Sores or Ulcers: Non-healing sores on the lips, gums, or inside the mouth are among the most common signs of oral cancer. These may bleed easily and persist for several weeks.
• White or Red Patches: Areas of white (leukoplakia) or red (erythroplakia) patches, particularly on the tongue or lining of the mouth, may be a warning sign. These patches can sometimes be painful but may also appear without any discomfort.
• Lumps or Thickened Areas: If you feel a lump or thickening in your cheek, on your gums, or under your tongue, it’s essential to get it checked out. A growing mass or bump that wasn't there before should be monitored by a dental professional.
• Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing: Oral cancer can make chewing, swallowing, or even speaking uncomfortable. A feeling that something is caught in your throat may also be a warning sign.
• Persistent Pain or Numbness: Any unexplained numbness, pain, or tenderness around the mouth, neck, or face could indicate a problem. Sometimes, oral cancer may cause ear pain without other ear-related symptoms.
• Loose Teeth: Teeth that become loose or changes in how your dentures fit without a clear dental cause could be related to underlying issues, including cancer.
• Changes in Your Voice: Hoarseness, a sore throat, or changes in voice pitch or clarity may be a sign of oral or throat cancer if they persist over time.

Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

Certain factors increase the risk of developing oral cancer, including:

• Tobacco Use: Smoking and smokeless tobacco are strongly linked to oral cancer.
• Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use, especially combined with tobacco, significantly raises risk.
• HPV Infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a known risk factor, especially for throat cancers.
• Excessive Sun Exposure: This primarily increases the risk of lip cancers.
• Family History: A family history of cancer can also contribute to an increased risk.

How Is Oral Cancer Detected?

At Martin Dentistry, regular dental exams include screening for signs of oral cancer. Here’s how we approach oral cancer detection:

• Visual Examination: During a routine check-up, Dr. Matt Martin, Dr. Stephanie Martin, Dr. Lindsey Garrison, or Dr. Lynn Marshall will visually inspect your mouth, throat, lips, and face for any unusual patches, sores, or lumps.
• Physical Examination: In addition to a visual check, the dentist may feel areas of your mouth and throat to identify any abnormalities, swelling, or unusual texture changes. They’ll gently press on your jaw, neck, and lymph nodes to detect any swelling or tenderness.
• Oral Cancer Screening Tools: Some dental offices use specialized tools that highlight abnormal tissue areas under specific lighting. These screening devices can enhance early detection and pinpoint areas that need further examination.
• Biopsy Referral: If a suspicious area is identified, we may recommend a biopsy—a small sample of tissue—to be examined by a pathologist. This is the most definitive way to determine if cancerous cells are present.

Why Regular Screenings Matter

Early detection of oral cancer can make a world of difference in treatment outcomes. At Martin Dentistry, we’re committed to thorough oral cancer screenings during regular check-ups. Many of the early signs of oral cancer can be subtle or mistaken for other conditions, making professional exams essential.

Take Charge of Your Oral Health

If you notice any unusual symptoms or changes in your mouth, don’t ignore them. Our team at Martin Dentistry is here to ensure that your oral health is always our priority. Schedule your routine check-up and screening today with Dr. Matt Martin, Dr. Stephanie Martin, Dr. Lindsey Garrison, or Dr. Lynn Marshall. Together, we can keep your smile healthy and help you stay vigilant against oral cancer.