Cancer comes in many forms, and the jaw is one of the last places people expect it to manifest. However, according to the staff at Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska in Anchorage, this form of oral cancer is more common than it may seem, so it’s important to recognize the symptoms. These oral surgeons understand that early detection has a significant impact on your treatment and chances of survival.

3 Jaw Cancer Symptoms You Need to Know About

1. Tumors or Cysts

Unexplained lumps are one of the most common signs of cancer anywhere in the body. If they appear along the gumline or roof of your mouth, they may be a sign of jaw cancer. These tumors or cysts might vary in size and be sensitive to touch. In some cases, they may be mistaken for a sore. If these lumps don’t go away after two weeks, consult a dentist and oral surgeon, so they can perform a biopsy.

2. Persistent Pain

Mouth and jaw pain are related to many conditions, which makes it hard to diagnose jaw cancer based on this symptom alone. Regardless, chronic discomfort should not be ignored. The sensation may be dull at first, but it will strengthen; it may also spread to other parts of the mouth. Some people only experience pain in the jaw or cheek, beneath the teeth, or in the neck, while others feel it in multiple locations. The discomfort will be most prominent where the cancer is, which will help the oral surgeon make a diagnosis.

3. Loose or Shifting Teeth

When tumors develop in the jaw, they break down the sockets that keep teeth in place. As this occurs, you may notice teeth becoming loose or shifting. This will eventually result in tooth loss as the cancer develops, so don’t wait to contact a dentist or oral surgeon and schedule a screening.

If you need dental surgery to confirm or treat jaw cancer, then turn to the staff at Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska. Their oral surgeons offer a variety of services to address many common health concerns, improving patients’ chances of survival and quality of life. Call (907) 561-1430 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website and Facebook page to learn about their cosmetic dental care services.