Regular dental visits are about more than just cleanings; they’re a crucial opportunity for dentists to screen for early signs of oral cancer. Like other cancers, oral cancer involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, in this case, in the mouth, neck, or head. Early detection is key to successful treatment, making routine dental check-ups vitally important.

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer can develop in various parts of the mouth, including:

Lips
Tongue (underneath and on top)
Inner lining of the cheeks
Gums
Floor of the mouth
Roof of the mouth (hard and soft palate)
Area behind the wisdom teeth

It can also occur in the throat (oropharyngeal cancer).

Signs and Symptoms:

A dentist will examine these areas during a routine check-up, looking for any abnormalities. Potential signs and symptoms of oral cancer include:

Sores that Don’t Heal: A sore in the mouth or on the lip that doesn’t heal within two weeks.
Red or White Patches: Unusual red or white patches inside the mouth.
Lumps or Thickening: A lump, thickening, or rough spot in the mouth, throat, or on the lips.
Mouth Bleeding: Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
Numbness: Numbness or loss of feeling in any part of the mouth, face, or neck.
Ear Pain: Persistent ear pain, especially on one side, without an ear infection.
Voice Changes: Hoarseness or a change in your voice that lasts for more than two weeks.
Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing: Pain or difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw or tongue.
Loose Teeth: Teeth that become loose for no apparent reason.
Jaw Swelling: Swelling or pain in the jaw.
Persistent Sore Throat: A sore throat or feeling that something is caught in the throat that doesn’t go away.

Risk Factors:

While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors increase the risk:

Age: The risk increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over 50.
Gender: Men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women.
Tobacco Use: Smoking (cigarettes, cigars, pipes) and chewing tobacco significantly increase the risk.
Alcohol Consumption: Heavy alcohol use is a major risk factor, especially when combined with tobacco use.
HPV Infection: Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV16, are linked to oropharyngeal cancer.
Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure to the lips increases the risk of lip cancer.
Poor Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase risk.
Weakened Immune System:

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Oral Examination: Your dentist will visually examine your mouth, throat, and neck for any abnormalities.
Biopsy: If a suspicious area is found, a biopsy will be performed to collect a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. This is the only way to definitively diagnose cancer. The biopsy can be:
- Incisional Biopsy: A small piece of tissue is removed.
- Excisional Biopsy: The entire suspicious area is removed.
- Brush Biopsy/Exfoliative Cytology: Cells are collected by brushing the area (less invasive, but may not be as definitive).
Imaging Tests: If cancer is detected, imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans) may be used to determine the stage (extent) of the cancer.
Treatment: Treatment for oral cancer depends on the type, location, and stage of the cancer. It may involve:
- Surgery: To remove the tumor and any affected lymph nodes.
- Radiation Therapy: To kill cancer cells using high-energy rays.
- Chemotherapy: To kill cancer cells using drugs.
- Targeted Therapy: To target specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
- Immunotherapy: To boost the body’s immune system to fight cancer.

Prognosis:

The survival rate for oral cancer depends on various factors, including the stage at diagnosis. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. The five-year survival rate is much higher when the cancer is found and treated early.

Prevention:

Regular Dental Check-ups: This is the most important step for early detection.
Avoid Tobacco: Don’t smoke or use any form of tobacco.
Limit Alcohol: Consume alcohol in moderation, if at all.
HPV Vaccination: Consider the HPV vaccine, which can protect against strains of HPV linked to oropharyngeal cancer.
Sun Protection: Protect your lips from the sun by using lip balm with SPF.
Healthy Diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Self-Exams: Regularly self-examine your own mouth

By being aware of the risk factors, signs, and symptoms of oral cancer, and by prioritizing regular dental check-ups, you can play an active role in protecting your oral and overall health.

By Alexander Ash, DDS

Dr. Ash is the founder of Studio Dental Care. He earned his Doctorate at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, followed by two General Residencies at New York-Presbyterian / Weill-Cornell Hospital and the UCLA Sepulveda VA Hospital.