Imagine your mouth as a bustling city – full of movement, communication, and essential functions. Now, think of oral cancer as an unexpected roadblock. If left unchecked, it can stop everything in its tracks. But here’s the good news: with a little awareness and timely action, you can stay ahead of the game.
In this blog, we’ll explore what oral cancer is, the warning signs to watch out for, and how Northland Smiles Dental in NW Calgary can help you catch it early. Let’s break it down.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer, sometimes called mouth cancer or oral cavity cancer, is a disease where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the oral cavity. This can include the lips, tongue, cheeks (buccal mucosa), the floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, and even areas at the back of the mouth like the oropharynx.
Most oral cancers start in the thin, flat squamous cells lining the mouth and throat. Over time, these cancer cells can spread to nearby tissues and even lymph nodes in the neck, leading to more serious head and neck cancers. That’s why early diagnosis is so important.
Early Signs of Oral Cancer
Early stage oral cancer often shows up as subtle changes, so keep your eyes peeled for:
White or red patches (especially on the tongue, cheeks, or floor of the mouth)
Sores that don’t heal after two weeks
Lumps or thickened tissues in the mouth or neck
Bleeding in the mouth without an obvious cause
If any of these symptoms of oral cancer linger, it’s time to talk to a healthcare provider.
Common Symptoms of Advanced Oral Cancer
When mouth cancer advances, the signs and symptoms become harder to ignore:
Persistent pain or painful swallowing
Loose teeth or dentures that suddenly don’t fit
Numbness in the tongue or oral cavity
Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
Ear pain without hearing loss
Swelling in the neck or enlarged lymph nodes
These symptoms could indicate that the cancer has spread to nearby areas such as the throat or lymph nodes. Seeking help quickly improves your chances of being treated successfully.
When to See a Dentist or Doctor for Oral Cancer Diagnosis?
If you’ve had any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, don’t delay, see a health professional. You can start with your general dentist, who may refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a head and neck specialist.
Early diagnosis often means more effective and less aggressive cancer treatment, which can include surgery, radiation therapy, or other treatments depending on the cancer’s location and severity.
Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?
The average age for developing oral cancer is over 50, but younger people aren’t immune, especially with the rise of HPV-related cases. Here are some key risk factors:
Tobacco use (smoking or chewing tobacco)
Alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco products
HPV infection (linked to oropharyngeal cancer)
Prolonged sun exposure, increasing the risk of lip cancer
Family history of cancer or other health conditions
Poor general health or a weakened immune system
The more of these risk factors you have, the greater your risk of developing oral cavity cancer.
How Oral Cancer Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis usually starts with a visual exam and palpation of the oral cavity and neck to check for abnormalities. If anything looks suspicious, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend:
A biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells
Imaging tests, such as a CT scan, MRI, or PET scan to determine if the cancer has spread
HPV testing in some cases
A flexible tube with a camera might be used to view deeper into the throat or voice box area. All of this helps your healthcare provider create the most effective cancer treatment plan for you.
Oral Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment options depend on the stage of the disease, its location, and your overall health. They may include:
Surgery to remove the tumor and possibly remove lymph nodes through a neck dissection
Radiation therapy, sometimes used alone or after surgery
Chemotherapy for more advanced or aggressive cancers
Targeted therapies or immunotherapy to fight cancer cells directly
Reconstructive surgery may be needed to fill gaps left after treatment and restore appearance or function
You might also work with a maxillofacial surgeon or neck surgeon during your treatment journey, especially if cancer has spread beyond the original site.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Oral Cancer
Preventive measures include:
Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can significantly reduce your risk of developing oral cancer. These two habits are among the biggest contributors to oral health issues, so making even small changes can have a big impact.
Regular Dental Checkups: Routine visits allow for early detection of potential issues, ensuring that any abnormalities are identified and monitored before they become serious. At Northland Smiles Dental, we perform thorough exams and screenings at every check-up.
Healthy Diet: Incorporating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential antioxidants that help protect against cellular damage. Think of it as fuel for your body’s natural defense system.
What Is the Prognosis for Oral Cancer?
The prognosis depends heavily on early diagnosis and the cancer’s location. Most oral cancers that are caught in the early stage have a good outcome, with a five-year survival rate around 80%. If cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other areas, that rate drops significantly.
Treatment also affects long-term quality of life, especially if the cancer requires major surgery or affects your ability to eat, speak, or breathe. That’s why catching it early is so important.
Living With and Beyond Oral Cancer
Living through cancer treatment is challenging, but many patients go on to live full lives. After treatment, you may need:
Speech or swallowing therapy
Follow-up care to monitor for recurrence
Support groups or counseling to deal with emotional changes
Help with nutrition and oral hygiene
With a strong support team, including your dentist, doctors, and loved ones, you can heal both physically and emotionally.
Final Thoughts: Take Action Early
At Northland Smiles Dental, we believe that awareness is your best defense. Oral cancer may sound scary, but with early detection and proper care, outcomes can be positive.
If you’re in NW Calgary or the surrounding communities and have concerns about your oral health, book an appointment today. Whether it’s a sore throat, loose teeth, or something just doesn’t feel right, we’re here to help you protect your smile and your life.
FAQs on Oral Cancer
What causes oral cancer?
Oral cancer is caused by genetic mutations that lead to abnormal cell growth in the mouth. Some risk factors include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, HPV infection, prolonged sun exposure, poor diet, a weakened immune system, and chronic oral irritation.
Does Diet Play a Role in Preventing Oral Cancer?
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants can help reduce the risk of oral cancer by supporting immune function and reducing cellular damage from harmful substances.
Can Oral Cancer Develop Without Any Painful Symptoms?
Yes, many early-stage oral cancers are painless. Unexplained white or red patches, lumps, or slow-healing sores may be the first warning signs, even if they don’t hurt.
How Often Should I Get an Oral Cancer Screening?
Most adults should have an oral cancer screening during routine dental checkups (every 6–12 months). Those at higher risk (smokers, heavy drinkers, HPV-positive individuals) may need more frequent screenings.
