If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please call our emergency hotline at (732) 575-9440 and speak to Teri, to book your appointment as soon as possible!

What Does Mouth Cancer Look Like?

Every minute counts when it comes to oral cancer, and knowing what it looks like is one of your best tools for detection. While the early signs can be difficult to spot, there are identifiers to look for. Our Point Pleasant dentist explains what oral cancer looks like and how it’s treated here.


What Causes Oral Cancer?

While the exact cause of oral cancer is always clear, certain lifestyle choices and risk factors can significantly increase your chances of developing it, including, but not limited to:

  • Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco exposes your mouth to harmful chemicals.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking, especially when combined with tobacco use.
  • Sun Exposure: Too much sun, particularly on the lips, can cause skin cancers, including oral cancer. 
  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting oral health can lead to chronic inflammation and infections.
  • Viral Infections: Certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) are linked to oral cancer, particularly in younger people. 
  • General Predisposition: Your risk may be higher if oral or other cancers run in your family. 

What Does Mouth Cancer Look Like?

Catching oral cancer early on can make all the difference. While symptoms can vary, there are some common warning signs: 

  1. Persistent Sores

    2. Mouth sores that bleed easily and don’t heal within two weeks. Even small sores that initially seem harmless can be an early sign of something more serious.


  2. Red or White Patches

    3. Unusual spots on your lips, gums, or inside your cheeks that don’t go away. These patches may feel rough, raised, or irritated and can sometimes be painless.


  3. Lumps or Swelling

    4. Any persistent lumps or thickened areas in your mouth or neck that don’t shrink over time. These could be painless or tender and may interfere with chewing or speaking.


  4. Loose Teeth

    5. Teeth that become loose without an obvious dental issue, such as gum disease or injury. It could also be a sign if your dentures suddenly don’t fit right.


  5. Numbness or Pain

    6. Oral cancer isn’t always visible, so sometimes, you’ll feel it instead. You might experience unexplained numbness, tingling, or persistent pain in your mouth, tongue, or face. There might also be an unusual burning sensation.


  6. Difficulty Swallowing

    7. You may also experience swallowing, persistent throat discomfort, or a lump in your throat. Some people report feeling something stuck in their throat even when they’re not eating.


  7. Hoarseness

    8. A raspy voice, ongoing hoarseness, or frequent throat clearing that won’t go away. If your voice sounds different for an extended period, it could signify something more serious.


How Is Oral Cancer Diagnosed and Treated?

If oral cancer is suspected, your dentist or doctor will start with a thorough examination, checking for any unusual color changes, textures, or lesions in your mouth. They’ll also feel around your neck and jaw for any swollen or hardened lymph nodes.

If anything looks concerning, the next step may be a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken and tested for cancer cells. Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs might also be used to see if the cancer has spread.


Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage and location of the cancer. Surgery is typically the first option to remove the tumor, sometimes followed by radiation therapy to target any remaining cancer cells. In more advanced cases, chemotherapy may be recommended to shrink the tumor before surgery or help fight the disease.


Frequently Asked Questions


How Common Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer might not get as much attention as other types, but it’s more common than you think. Every year, over 55,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed, with men over 50 being at higher risk.


Is Mouth Cancer Painful?

In the initial stages, mouth cancer may not cause any pain, which makes it easy to overlook. However, pain can set in as the disease progresses, especially if it reaches nearby tissues. Regular check-ups are so important because they help catch it early before it gets worse.


Can Oral Cancer Be Prevented?

While oral cancer isn’t always preventable, there are ways to lower your risk:

  • Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help support your immune system and oral health.
  • Protect Your Lips: To reduce the risk of lip cancer, use lip balm with SPF and limit sun exposure.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your mouth healthy and flushes out harmful bacteria.
  • Know Your Family History: If oral cancer runs in your family, talk to your dentist about extra precautions you can take.

Worried About the Early Signs of Oral Cancer? Contact Us!

If you’re worried about oral cancer or notice any symptoms, don’t wait — contact our Point Pleasant dentist’s office today! We’re here to help with expert care and peace of mind. Regular check-ups and screenings can make all the difference. 

Call 732-714-1030 to schedule your appointment! 

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!