Oral cancer is cancer that occurs in or around the mouth. Cancer is a very dangerous disease and early recognition is the best way to ensure you beat cancer and survive. If you are worried about the risk of developing oral cancer, look out for these signs and symptoms.

Where Can Mouth Cancer Occur?

Mouth cancer isn’t necessarily just in the mouth and can develop on any part of the mouth. You can get cancer of the lip, tongue, gums, roof of the mouth, floor of the mouth and the insides of the cheeks. You may have heard mouth cancer called oral cancer or oral cavity cancer.

The Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

There are several signs and symptoms of oral cancer that also are associated with many other diseases of the mouth, and therefore it is always better to check with your dentist to rule out oral cancer. You may develop a sore that bleeds and will not heal. As with other cancers you may develop a lump, growth or thickening of the skin around your mouth or in the lining of the mouth. Your teeth may become loose or if you have dentures, they may start to feel loose. You may have pain in your tongue, in your jaw, when swallowing or chewing. You may also develop a sore throat.

When Should I See a Doctor or Dentist?

You can see a doctor or a dentist if you are worried that you are displaying any of these signs or symptoms. If your symptoms are becoming unmanageable or last longer than two weeks and do not seem to be due to another illness, you should seek medical advice to have further investigations. A doctor or dentist will first look for a more common cause to your symptoms such as an abscess or periodontal disease, but if they suspect oral cancer, they will refer you on for further tests to confirm a diagnosis. If you are a heavy smoker or drinker, you are more likely to develop oral cancer, therefore if you are displaying any of these symptoms, get an appointment sooner rather than later.

Seeing your dentist regularly can help prevent oral cancer or catch it sooner, meaning you have more chance of getting rid of it before it spreads. Contact us today to arrange an appointment with the best dentist in Staten Island.