Oral Cancer Symptoms
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Oral Cancer Symptoms
Oral cancer may develop in the moist mucosas (tissues) lining the mouth—including the gums (gingiva), the space between the wisdom teeth (retromolar trigone), or the inner lining of the cheeks (buccal mucosa). Early on, the cancer may begin on the surface of the tissues, causing seemingly superficial symptoms, such as changes in the appearance of the inside of the mouth.
As the cancer develops, it may begin to grow deeper into the tissues and, as this happens, other physical changes may become more pronounced. The symptoms may differ from person to person depending on several factors, including the type of cancer (such as squamous cell carcinomas compared to verrucous carcinomas) or the location in the mouth where the cancer originated. For example, teeth may become loose or dentures may not fit properly if the cancer develops in the gums.
Symptoms may be subtle, like small white or red patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth (Visual Signs of Oral Cancer). In other cases, some people experience noticeable pain or swelling (Impaired Functions). Often, however, there are no obvious symptoms.
Visual Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Visual symptoms of oral cancer include:
- Mouth sores
- Lumps on the gums or lining of the mouth
- Thickening of the lining of the mouth like the gums or buccal mucosa
- One or more patches (white or red) on the gums, tongue, tonsils, or lining of the mouth
- Bleeding or numbness in the lips or mouth
Impaired Functions Caused by Oral Cancer
In addition to oral cancer symptoms that are visible, the disease may also cause impairment of certain functions. These impaired functions may include:
- Pain in the lips or mouth
- Teeth that become loose
- Changes in how dentures or mouthware fits
- Trouble chewing or swallowing
- Difficulty moving the tongue or jaw
- Swelling of the jaw
Any changes in the mouth, like unusual bleeding, sores or numbness, should be evaluated by a doctor. Although these symptoms may not be caused by cancer, it is possible that these symptoms could develop into a more serious condition. For example, oral lichen planus (LP), an inflammatory disease that can cause painful mouth lesions, is a treatable condition. However, if left untreated, oral LP may increase the risk of squamous cell carcinoma.
Sometimes changes in the mouth are a sign of another disease affecting the whole body. The measles virus, for instances, may also cause the formation of spots on the inner lining of the cheeks (buccal mucosa). Similarly, changes in the color of the gums may be associated with anemia or other blood disorders.
Your dentist or oral hygienist may look for changes or abnormalities during your next regular check-up. Looking at your own mouth in the mirror can help with identifying some of the painless symptoms, like unusual red or white spots. Talk to your doctor or dentist if you are experiencing any mouth pain, toothaches, or have noticed differences on the inside of your mouth.
Next Topic: Oral Cancer Staging
