Oral cancer is a serious condition that can develop in the mouth, tongue, gums, lips, or throat. It often goes unnoticed in the early stages, which makes regular check-ups and self-examinations crucial. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so recognizing the warning signs can make all the difference. If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth that persist for more than two weeks, you should see a doctor or dentist immediately. Here are five major signs of oral cancer that you should never ignore.

Persistent Mouth Sores

Most people get mouth sores from time to time, whether from accidentally biting their cheek, irritation from braces, or minor infections. However, a mouth sore that doesn’t heal within two weeks could indicate something more serious. Oral cancer often starts as a sore that doesn’t go away, unlike normal ulcers or cuts in the mouth that heal within a few days. These sores can appear on the lips, tongue, gums, or inside the mouth.

Some may be painless at first, while others might cause discomfort or bleeding when touched.

Cancerous sores are often mistaken for harmless ulcers, which is why they go undiagnosed for long periods. If a sore in your mouth has been there for over two weeks and shows no signs of improvement, don’t wait, get it checked by a healthcare professional. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

Unexplained Lumps or Thickening in the Mouth or Neck

Another warning sign of oral cancer is an unexplained lump, growth, or thickened area inside the mouth, on the gums, or in the neck. These lumps can develop without any known cause and may not be painful initially. Sometimes, a lump inside the mouth feels like a thickened area of tissue rather than a distinct bump. This can make it easy to overlook, especially if you don’t routinely check inside your mouth. Some people first notice the lump when brushing their teeth, eating, or talking.

If you feel an unusual mass in your mouth or neck, schedule a medical check-up immediately. Many non-cancerous conditions can cause lumps, but it’s always best to rule out serious possibilities. A doctor or dentist can determine if further testing is needed to check for cancerous cells.

White or Red Patches in the Mouth

Oral cancer can also appear as red or white patches in the mouth. These patches, known as leukoplakia (white patches) and erythroplakia (red patches), indicate abnormal cell growth and may be precancerous. White patches are caused by excessive cell production, creating a thickened, rough surface in the mouth. Red patches are often more concerning because they can indicate severe tissue changes with a higher risk of developing into cancer. Some patches are a mix of both red and white.

These patches may not cause any pain or discomfort, which is why they often go unnoticed. Many people assume they are harmless irritations from dentures, braces, or smoking. However, persistent patches that don’t heal should always be evaluated by a medical professional. If you see an unexplained red or white patch in your mouth, monitor it closely. If it doesn’t disappear within two weeks, consult a doctor or dentist to rule out any serious conditions. A biopsy may be needed to determine whether cancerous changes are present.

Difficulty Swallowing or Moving the Jaw

Trouble swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue can be a warning sign of oral cancer. This symptom may develop gradually and worsen over time. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) occurs when tumors or abnormal tissue growth obstruct the throat or interfere with muscle movement. Some people experience pain while swallowing, while others feel as if food is stuck in their throat. In some cases, a person may unintentionally lose weight due to difficulty eating.

Oral cancer can also make it harder to move the tongue or jaw. If you notice stiffness, pain, or limited mobility in your mouth, it’s worth getting checked. This symptom can also be caused by other conditions, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, but it’s important to rule out serious issues like cancer. If you experience persistent difficulty swallowing or moving your mouth, don’t ignore it. A medical professional can conduct tests to determine the cause and suggest appropriate treatment.

Persistent Ear Pain

Ear pain that doesn’t go away could be linked to oral cancer, especially if it occurs alongside other symptoms. While ear infections are a common cause of ear pain, chronic ear pain without an infection can be a sign of something more serious. The mouth and throat share nerve pathways with the ears, so cancerous growths in the oral cavity can sometimes cause referred pain in the ear. This means you might feel discomfort in your ear even though the source of the problem is in your mouth or throat.

Many people dismiss ear pain, especially if they don’t have a cold or sinus infection. However, persistent ear pain that lasts for weeks should never be ignored. If you notice unexplained ear pain, especially if it’s accompanied by difficulty swallowing, a lump in the neck, or a sore that won’t heal, consult a doctor immediately.

Conclusion

Oral cancer symptoms can be subtle at first, but they should never be ignored. If you experience any of the signs mentioned above, especially if they persist for more than two weeks, make an appointment with a healthcare provider. Many oral cancer symptoms can also be caused by less serious conditions like infections, allergies, or dental issues. However, the only way to know for sure is to get a professional evaluation. Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes and increases the chances of a full recovery.

Regular dental check-ups play a crucial role in early detection. Dentists are often the first to notice suspicious changes in the mouth. If you smoke, drink alcohol heavily, or have a family history of cancer, you should be extra vigilant about routine screenings. By paying attention to these warning signs and seeking medical advice when necessary, you can take an active role in protecting your health. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and get it checked out. When it comes to cancer, early action can save lives.

If you believe you have oral cancer or just want to check, Bloomingdale Dentistry is here to help. Schedule an appointment with us today!