Posted on 7/15/2025 by Oral Surgery Specialists of Austin Office
Oral cancer is a serious disease that can affect anyone. While it's not as common as other types of cancer, it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so you can catch it early when it's most treatable. One way to do this is by checking yourself for oral cancer regularly.
This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to perform a self-exam for oral cancer. It will also discuss the risk factors for oral cancer and the importance of early detection.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the mouth. It can occur on the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, palate, and tonsils. Oral cancer is often caused by tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and exposure to the sun.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
The most common signs and symptoms of oral cancer include:
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A sore or lump in the mouth that doesn't heal
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A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or tonsils
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Persistent pain in the mouth or ear
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Difficulty swallowing or speaking
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Numbness or tingling in the mouth or face
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Loose teeth
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A change in the way your dentures fit
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
Several risk factors can increase your chances of developing oral cancer. These include:
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Tobacco use: This is the leading risk factor for oral cancer. Smoking, chewing tobacco, and using snuff all increase your risk.
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Heavy alcohol consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can also increase your risk of oral cancer.
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Exposure to the sun: Sun exposure can increase your risk of lip cancer.
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Human papillomavirus (HPV): This sexually transmitted infection is a risk factor for several types of cancer, including oral cancer.
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Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase your risk of oral cancer.
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Age: Oral cancer is more common in people over 40.
How to Check Yourself for Oral Cancer
You can check yourself for oral cancer regularly by following these steps:
1~
Look: Stand in front of a mirror and look inside your mouth. Check your lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, palate, and tonsils for any unusual changes.
2~
Feel: Use your fingers to feel inside your mouth for any lumps or bumps.
3~
Say: Say "ahh" and check your tonsils.
4~
Swallow: Swallow and feel for any difficulty or pain.
If you notice any of the signs or symptoms of oral cancer, be sure to see your dentist or doctor right away. Early detection is essential for successful treatment.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment of oral cancer. When oral cancer is caught early, it's often curable. However, if it's not detected until later stages, it can be more difficult to treat and may even be fatal.
That's why it's so important to check yourself for oral cancer regularly and to see your dentist or doctor for regular checkups. These simple steps can help you catch oral cancer early when it's most treatable.
Oral Surgery Specialists of Austin, 5301 Davis Ln, Suite 102, Austin, Texas 78749, (512) 547-6852, ossaustin.com, 11/12/2025, Page Phrases: oral surgery austin,
Oral cancer is a serious disease that can affect anyone. While it's not as common as other types of cancer, it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms so you can catch it early when it's most treatable. One way to do this is by checking yourself for oral cancer regularly.