Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer or cancer of the oral cavity, is often used to describe many cancers that start in the region of the mouth. These most commonly occur on the lips, tongue and floor of the mouth but can also start in the cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth, tonsils and salivary glands.
Mouth cancers are generally classified as head and neck cancers. While the term mouth cancer is seldom used in scientific literature nor in Australia’s official cancer data collection system, we use it here because it is used in basic information to promote cancer prevention and is easy to understand.
At Pain Free Dental Clinic, we believe education and regular dental check-ups play a critical role in saving lives.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Early detection and timely treatment of mouth cancer can dramatically improve survival rates. When diagnosed early, the 5-year survival rate for localised mouth cancer is 84%, compared to just 39% once the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Routine dental visits allow your dentist to identify abnormal tissue changes early. During regular dental check-ups, dentists can visually examine and feel areas of the mouth where early signs of cancer often appear.
Maintaining good oral hygiene through services like routine teeth scaling and cleaning also supports overall oral health and early detection.
Mouth cancer symptoms
Symptoms of mouth cancer can include:
- a lump in your neck
- loose teeth
- swelling or a sore on your lip that won’t heel
- difficult or painful swallowing
- changes in speech
- bleeding or numbness in the mouth
- white or red patches on the mouth, tongue or gums
- unexplained weight loss.
Some symptoms may overlap with other oral conditions such as gum disease or the side effects of neglecting teeth, which is why professional assessment is essential.
Causes of mouth cancer
The main risk factors for most mouth cancers are tobacco and alcohol consumption. Other risk factors can include:
- poor oral hygiene and gum disease
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – learn more in our guide on the facts about HPV and oral cancer
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
- family history of mouth cancers
- exposure to the sun
- chewing the seed of the areca palm tree (sometimes called areca or betel nut).
Lifestyle habits, diet, and oral hygiene also play a role. A healthy diet and proper care, as outlined in our article on gum disease and diet, can support better oral and overall health.
Signs of mouth cancer
Signs of mouth cancer are often first detected by your dentist. dentist is likely to examine your mouth, throat, tongue, cheeks, ears and eyes. You may also be referred to a specialist for additional tests, such as:
- A biopsy is the removal of a small amount of tissue which is sent to a pathologist to determine if cancer cells are present.
- Radiographs of the head and neck can be used to see if cancer cells are present in the jaw, lungs or chest.
- PET, CT and MRI scans to determine the location, stage and spread of cancer cells.
Our clinic focuses on pain-free dentistry to ensure patient comfort, even during more complex examinations. If urgent symptoms appear, emergency dentistry may be required.
Treatment for mouth cancer
Treatment for mouth cancer depends on the type of cancer, where it is located and how far it has spread.
Staging
Tests such as CT and MRI scans help to determine how far the cancer has spread. Staging helps your doctor decide on the best treatment options for you.
Surgery
A common treatment for mouth cancers is surgery to remove the tumour, particularly in early-stage cancer. The extent of surgery may depend on the size of the tumour and how far the cancer has spread. Surrounding tissue and lymph nodes may also be removed.
Radiotherapy can be used on its own to treat some small mouth cancers. Radiotherapy can also be used in combination with chemotherapy for more advanced cancers. Your doctor may also recommend radiotherapy after surgery.
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill or shrink tumours. It can be used on its own or with radiotherapy. You may have chemotherapy to shrink a tumour before surgery or if cancer has come back after other treatments.
Palliative care
Palliative care aims to improve your quality of life without trying to cure the cancer. It may be recommended by your doctor to alleviate the symptoms of cancer or the side-effects of treatment.
Early Detection Saves Lives
Mouth cancer can often be seen and felt easily, making early detection possible during routine dental visits. Protect your health by staying informed and proactive.
If you notice any unusual symptoms or are due for a check-up, contact Pain Free Dental Clinic today to book an oral cancer screening. We also offer flexible payment plans to make quality dental care accessible.
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