Mouth cancer affects the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, and floor of the mouth. Though often painless at first, it can be life-threatening if detected late. Early detection greatly improves chances of cure.
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
Sores that don’t heal within 2 weeks
Red or white patches inside the mouth
Lumps or thickening in the cheek
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw
Numbness in mouth, lips, or chin
Persistent bad breath or earaches
Swelling in neck or under jaw
If symptoms last over 14 days, see a dentist or doctor immediately.
Who’s at Risk?
Tobacco users
Frequent drinkers
Those exposed to sun (especially for lip cancer)
People with HPV infection
Poor oral hygiene or regular hot drink consumption
Family history of cancer
Smokers and heavy drinkers face the highest risk.
Why Dental Checkups Help
Dentists can spot early signs of mouth cancer during routine exams. Twice-yearly checkups are crucial, especially for smokers, drinkers, and those over 40.
Cancer Stages & Survival:
Stage I (small tumor): 90%+ survival
Later stages have lower survival rates, emphasizing early detection.
Treatment Options:
Surgery
Radiation
Chemotherapy
Immunotherapy
Speech/swallowing therapy post-treatment
Prevention Tips:
Quit tobacco
Limit alcohol
Get HPV vaccine
Practice good oral hygiene
Visit your dentist regularly
Mouth cancer is often silent until advanced. Stay informed and act early—your mouth could save your life.