5 Common Oral Cancer Symptoms to Be Aware Of

May 13, 2019 | General health

In Ireland, there are over 700 cases of oral cancer each year.

Because it is common, you should be able to identify the different symptoms.

Do you go to the dentist regularly? Do you know the most common oral cancer symptoms? Keep reading to learn more about when to seek treatment.

1. Patches and Lumps in Your Mouth

If you notice patches, lumps, or even sores on or around your mouth, this may be an oral cancer symptom.

This symptom could take many different forms, but some of the most common ones include red or white patches inside of your mouth, sometimes even on your tongue, tonsils or gums.

You could even notice swelling of different bumps or spots on your lips or mouth.

As with a lot of cancers, new growths and lumps may form on or in your mouth, but they could also form on your neck as well.

You could even develop ulcers that just won’t go away.

If you’ve had any of these sores, ulcers, or odd growths for at least two weeks and they don’t go away, it may be time to visit your dentist or doctor.

2. Pain

Pain is a very common symptom associated with oral cancer and you may experience different kinds of pain.

For example, you may experience pain in your mouth, jaw, or ears.

You could also feel pain and experience problems when trying to chew or swallow your food. Some people have said that they even have difficulties trying to move their tongue or jaw.

You could also feel soreness, like a sore throat, or you could constantly feel like there’s something stuck in the back of your throat.

3. Loose Teeth

If you notice that you suddenly have loose teeth, this may also be another symptom to watch out for.

If your teeth are suddenly loose with no explanation, this may be an issue.

If your jaw starts to swell and your dentures aren’t fitting properly anymore, you may want to take a trip to the dentist.

4. Numbness

Many people say that a feeling of numbness sometimes occurs in their face or tongue.

If there is no other explanation for this loss of feeling in your face, mouth, or neck, this could also be a sign of oral cancer.

5. Other Changes

Some other changes and symptoms that may be linked to oral cancer could include a sudden, dramatic loss in weight.

It could also change your voice, making it sound hoarser or losing it completely.

You may also notice that no matter how many mints you have or how many times you brush your teeth, you still have constant bad breath.

Treat Your Oral Cancer Symptoms

If you are experiencing any of these oral cancer symptoms, you may want to make an appointment to go to your dentist.

At your dentist, they can check for signs and symptoms while performing a regular dental check-up.

If these symptoms have been persistent for a few weeks and aren’t going away, your dentist may send you for some extra tests.

If you are worried and want re-assurance, make an appointment with us to get checked out.

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