Oral cancer can occur anywhere in the mouth, including on the tongue, throat, lips, salivary glands, and sinuses. The early indicators of oral cancer can be subtle and are often mistaken for minor health problems, but paying attention to persistent symptoms will help you catch it early. Early diagnosis of oral cancers increases the chances of successful treatment, so here are a few symptoms you should always mention to your dentist. 

5 Potential Signs of Mouth Cancer

1. Difficulty Eating & Swallowing

Sudden, persistent difficulty with everyday activities like moving your tongue and jaw, chewing, speaking, and swallowing may indicate oral cancer. Consult your dentist if you’ve experienced these symptoms. 

2. Tooth Pain, Ear Pain, or Loose Teeth

If you’ve experienced unexplained earaches or toothaches that don’t go away, it could be a part of a larger issue. Jaw pain, tooth pain, loose teeth, and ear pain without any hearing loss can all be signs of cancer. 

3. Swelling & Changes in Your Mouth

Bleeding in the mouth for no apparent reason is a cause for concern. Bleeding without a cause or unexplained changes in your mouth or face like pain, tenderness, or numbness are signs you should talk to your dentist. Other possible cancer symptoms include lumps, bumps, swelling, and other irregularities. 

4. Sore Throat 

Everyone gets an occasional sore throat. However, an unexplained sore throat that doesn’t go away can be cause for concern. You should also monitor hoarseness, aches, and a feeling of something caught in your throat.

5. Unexplained Weight Loss

Weight naturally tends to fluctuate, but losing large amounts quickly without changing your routine is cause for concern. While your general health practitioner will examine you for overall issues, have your dentist perform a preliminary oral cancer screen if weight loss is paired with any of the above symptoms.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, visit a dentist as soon as possible. Peter A. McIntyre, DDS, PC in Colorado Springs, CO, provides top-quality care, and their passionate staff will perform cancer screenings along with general dentistry services. Their team works hard to ensure each patient is healthy, comfortable, and confident after leaving their office. To schedule your appointment, call (719) 475-2511 today or visit their website to learn more.