5 Symptoms of Oral Cancer

When you visit your Long Beach, CA dentist, an oral cancer screening is one of the most valuable services you can get. Oral cancer affects millions of people all over the world, and your dentist is the best person to help detect the symptoms of this dangerous disease. Oral cancer has life-threatening potential if not detected early.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

By familiarizing yourself with the five most common symptoms of oral cancer, you can be aware enough to book an appointment with your dentist for an oral cancer screening.

1. Mouth Ulcers That Won’t Heal

Everyone occasionally gets a mouth sore, most commonly from biting the inside cheek of your mouth or something else. Typically, these mouth sores—or ulcers, as they are called—will take about two weeks to heal. But if you have mouth ulcers that don’t heal, this could be a sign of oral cancer.

2. Red or White Patches

As you go about your daily oral hygiene habits, take a look at the insides of your mouth. If you notice red or white patches on the soft tissue, consult your dentist as soon as possible, as this could indicate oral cancer.

3. Lumps or Thickening of Soft Tissue

Lumps, bumps, or thickening of the tissues inside the mouth can be a warning sign of oral cancer.

4. Difficulties With Swallowing or Chewing

Have you noticed recently that it’s harder to swallow or chew? Pay attention because this is a commonly-overlooked symptom of oral cancer. You should not be experiencing any discomfort when moving the jaw or tongue or when swallowing foods or beverages.

5. Unexplained Bleeding or Numbness

Any unexplained bleeding or numbness in the mouth or lips may be a symptom of oral cancer.

Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings

Early detection and treatment of oral cancer is imperative to a positive outcome. Further diagnostic tests, such as biopsies, may be recommended to determine the presence of cancerous cells if any signs of potential oral cancer are found during a screening. A screening can differentiate between successful treatment and a potentially fatal circumstance. To book your oral cancer screening in Long Beach, CA, contact Dr. Andy Tang’s office. We offer oral cancer screenings individually or as part of your normal dental exam.