What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can occur on the lips, tongue, gums, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, and inside the cheeks.

What are the most common symptoms of oral cancer?

Persistent mouth sores that don't heal within two weeks
Red or white patches in the mouth
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
Lumps, thickening, or rough spots in the mouth
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Persistent ear pain
Numbness or pain in any area of the mouth
Swelling or changes in the jaw
Dramatic weight loss 

Who is at highest risk for oral cancer?

Tobacco users (smokers and smokeless tobacco users)
Heavy alcohol consumers
People over 40 years old
Individuals with HPV (human papillomavirus)
Those with a history of prolonged sun exposure
People with a weakened immune system
Individuals with a previous oral cancer diagnosis

How often should I get screened for oral cancer?

Dental professionals typically recommend:

Annual oral cancer screenings for adults over 40
More frequent screenings for high-risk individuals
Screenings during routine dental check-ups

What does an oral cancer screening involve?

A typical screening includes:

Visual examination of the mouth, lips, and throat
Physical palpation of the jaw and neck to check for lumps
Using special lights or dyes to highlight abnormal cells
Checking for restricted movement of the tongue or jaw

Can oral cancer be prevented?

Prevention strategies include:

Avoiding tobacco in all forms
Limiting alcohol consumption
Maintaining good oral hygiene
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Protecting lips from excessive sun exposure
Getting vaccinated against HPV
Regular dental check-ups

How is oral cancer diagnosed?

Initial visual and physical examination
Brush biopsy or tissue sample
Imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs
Referral to a specialist for comprehensive diagnosis

Are there any warning signs I should be particularly alert to?

Immediate dental consultation is recommended if you experience:

A sore that doesn't heal within two weeks
Persistent throat pain
Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
Unexplained numbness in the mouth
A lump or thickening in the cheek

Remember, while dentists can perform initial screenings and provide valuable information, a definitive diagnosis requires specialized medical evaluation. If you have concerns, always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice.

More specialized medical evaluation with healthcare professionals information and details can be found at Fiona Stanley Hospital, Medical Oncology and PCH.