What Are the Early Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
What Are the Early Symptoms of Oral Cancer?
When it comes to oral health, people usually think of tooth decay, gum disease, or bad breath. However, beyond these, a far more serious problem is oral cancer, a life-threatening disease if not detected early. Oral cancer, one of the most common cancers worldwide, can occur on the lips, tongue, palate, inner cheeks, gums, and floor of the mouth.
Early diagnosis greatly increases the success rate of oral cancer treatment. Therefore, knowing the early symptoms of oral cancer and consulting a dentist or doctor without delay when these signs appear is extremely important.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to malignant tumors that develop in the soft tissues of the mouth or areas such as the tongue and lips. Smoking, alcohol, HPV infection, long-term sun exposure, and genetic factors are among the most significant risk factors. Oral cancers detected at an early stage can be treated with surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy.
Early Symptoms of Oral Cancer
1. Non-Healing Sores in the Mouth
Sores in the mouth that do not heal for more than two weeks, similar to canker sores, are among the most prominent early signs of oral cancer. In particular, painless but persistent sores should be taken seriously.
2. Swelling in the Tongue or Inner Cheek
Lumps or swellings on the tongue, inside the cheek, or on the gums may be signs of oral cancer. These swellings can grow over time and make swallowing difficult.
3. Red or White Patches
Red (erythroplakia) or white (leukoplakia) patches on the oral mucosa may indicate precancerous changes at an early stage. Their cause should always be evaluated by a specialist.
4. Unexplained Bleeding
Bleeding in the oral tissues without any trauma may suggest oral cancer. Frequent and recurring bleeding should be taken seriously.
5. Difficulty in Chewing and Swallowing
Tumor growth in the tongue or throat region can make chewing and swallowing difficult. These complaints often begin early and worsen over time.
6. Persistent Pain or Numbness in the Mouth
Unexplained mouth pain or a numb sensation in the tongue or lips are also early warning signs. Such loss of sensation can occur when nerves are affected by the tumor.
7. Voice Changes and Throat Pain
Persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or unexplained voice changes may be signs of oral cancer, particularly when the tumor spreads toward the throat.
8. Restricted Jaw Movements
Pain, stiffness, or locking in the jaw while chewing are also symptoms that should not be ignored.
Who Is at Risk?
Oral cancer can occur in anyone, but some groups are at higher risk:
- Smokers and tobacco users
- Alcohol consumers
- People with HPV infection
- Those exposed to prolonged sunlight (especially at risk for lip cancer)
- Individuals over 50 years old
- People with a family history of cancer
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
When detected at an early stage, the treatment success rate of oral cancer is over 80%. However, this rate drops significantly in later stages. Therefore, non-healing sores, patches, swellings, or unexplained pain in the mouth should not be ignored, and a dentist should be consulted without delay.
Dentists can detect early signs of oral cancer during routine checkups. Therefore, regular oral and dental examinations are not only important for preventing cavities but also crucial for life-saving early diagnosis.
Ways to Prevent Oral Cancer
- Avoid smoking and tobacco products.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Use lip balms or protectors if you are exposed to sunlight for extended periods.
- Eat a balanced diet and consume foods rich in antioxidants.
- Maintain oral hygiene and brush regularly.
- Do not neglect routine dental checkups.
Knowing the early symptoms of oral cancer can save lives. Persistent sores, red or white patches, swellings, and unexplained pain in the mouth should never be ignored. Avoiding risk factors, maintaining good oral hygiene, and attending regular checkups are the most effective measures against oral cancer.
Remember, early diagnosis always increases treatment success. A healthy mouth improves not only your appearance but also your overall quality of life.
