Know the Signs of Oral Cancer
Early detection can save lives. Watch for these warning signs:
- White, red, or unusual patches in your mouth or on your lips
- Lumps, bumps, or rough spots that feel different
- Sores that don’t heal or bleeding that won’t stop
- Numbness, taste changes, or trouble swallowing
If you notice any of these symptoms, book a screening right away.
What Increases Your Risk?
Certain factors can raise your risk of developing oral cancer:
- Tobacco use – smoking or chewing
- Alcohol use – especially when combined with tobacco
- HPV infection – a known contributor to oral cancers
- Excessive sun exposure – especially on the lips
- Poor nutrition – a diet lacking essential nutrients
- Family history – a genetic link to oral cancer
- Leukoplakia – thick white patches in the mouth
- Gender – men are more likely to develop oral cancer
Taking action early and understanding your risk could make all the difference. Regular teeth cleanings and routine general dentistry exams give your dentist the best chance to spot early signs of oral cancer.
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Oral Cancer
Treating oral cancer depends on its stage, type, and location. Every treatment plan is personalized to ensure the most effective care for each individual patient.
Spotting Early Signs of Cancer
The main goal of an oral cancer screening is to catch cancer or precancerous changes as early as possible. During your exam, your dentist will closely examine the inside of your mouth, including under your tongue, checking for red or white patches, persistent sores, or anything unusual. They’ll also gently feel the tissues inside your mouth and along your neck to detect any lumps or changes in texture.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If any signs of concern are found during your screening, further testing may be recommended. This might include a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken and sent to a lab, or imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs. Depending on the results, treatment may involve surgical removal of tumors, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches to eliminate cancerous cells.
Prevention of Oral Cancer
You can lower your risk of oral cancer with a proactive approach. Regular dental exams help with early detection. Quitting tobacco, limiting alcohol, and protecting your lips from sun exposure using SPF lip balms are key steps. A nutrient-rich diet filled with fruits and vegetables also supports your health. During your daily oral care routine, take a moment to check for anything unusual and let your dentist know if you spot any changes. These preventive habits play a crucial role in reducing your risk.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, especially if you have known risk factors such as tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, or HPV. You should also schedule a screening if you notice unusual patches, lumps, or sores that don’t heal. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
During a screening, your dentist will examine your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue (top, sides, and underside), and the roof of your mouth for any abnormal patches or lesions. They’ll also gently feel the tissues in your mouth, jaw, neck, and throat to detect any unusual lumps or tenderness.
Wash your hands thoroughly, then use a mirror to inspect your lips, tongue, gums, and the roof of your mouth. Gently pull your lips to check behind them. Use a gauze or cotton pad to move your tongue and examine all sides. Feel inside your mouth with clean fingers for any lumps, rough spots, or tenderness. If you find anything unusual that lasts more than two weeks, contact your dentist.
Early signs may include flat patches that are red, white, grey, or yellow with red borders. These can appear anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, tongue, and roof of the mouth. Even if painless, any unusual area should be evaluated by a dentist or doctor promptly.
Yes, in its early stages, oral cancer can develop silently without pain or obvious signs, which is why routine screenings are so important.
In most cases, yes. Many dentists include a basic oral cancer screening as part of your routine exam, especially if you have known risk factors.
What Our Patients Are Saying
For more than 15 years, we've earned our 5-star reputation as one of the most trusted dental care providers for residents of Midlothian, North Chesterfield, Bon Air & the Greater Richmond area. We love our patients, and it seems they love us too!
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Hawkins Family Dentistry
- Monday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
- Tuesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
- Wednesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
- Thursday: 7:00am - 2:00pm
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Midlothian, VA, USA,
23113