Various Signs of Oral Cancer

Improper oral hygiene can lead to dangerous problems like oral cancer. Cancer that occurs on the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, the back of the throat, the tonsils or salivary glands, is referred as oral cancer. Cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco products, heavy alcohol use, and a combination of all these things, are the major risk factors of this cancer. Also, exposure of lips to sun may cause the problem. Even, a family history of cancer causes oral cancer. The risk of oral cancer is found to increase with age. The major issue with this oral health issue is that early signs of the disorder are not identifiable. However, some of the following signs indicate the development of oral cancer.

• Sores on the lip, mouth, throat, or gums which do not heal for a long time
• Lumps or thickening in the cheek which can be felt with the tongue
• White or red patches inside the mouth
• Unexplained pain in mouth
• Loss of sense in any part of the mouth
• Difficulty in chewing and swallowing
• Swelling of jaws leading to improper denture fit
• Ear pain without hearing loss
• Voice change
• Dramatic weight loss

Some of these symptoms may be evident with other dental problems like infection. However, if these signs persist for more than two weeks, then it is better to consult a dentist and get diagnosed for oral cancer. An early identification of the cancer enables treatment at the right time. Quitting unhealthy habits like smoking and alcohol abuse prevents the risk of oral cancer.