Hidden Dangers in Your Mouth: Early Signs of Oral Cancer

What to check: Run your tongue along your gums, cheeks, and under your tongue. Feel for:
- Hard lumps
- Velvety red/white patches (erythroplakia/leukoplakia)
- Crusty or eroded areas
Why it matters: These can be early signs of abnormal cell growth.
✅ Action: Document with a photo and schedule a dental exam.

🗣️ 4. Persistent Hoarseness or Voice Changes

What it sounds like: A raspy, strained, or “different” voice lasting more than 2–3 weeks—especially if you also feel a lump in your throat.
Why it matters: Could indicate cancer in the oropharynx (back of throat).
✅ Action: An ENT specialist can perform a scope exam.

🥤 5. Difficulty Chewing, Swallowing, or Moving Your Jaw/Tongue

What it feels like: Pain or stiffness when opening your mouth wide, chewing, or swallowing—even without visible sores.
Why it matters: Tumors can restrict movement or cause referred pain.
✅ ** Action**: Rule out TMJ or infection—but don’t delay evaluation.

🦷 6. Loose Teeth or Dentures That Suddenly Don’t Fit

What happens: Teeth shift or become loose without gum disease. Dentures feel “off” or rub painfully.
Why it matters: Tumors in the jawbone can alter bone structure.
✅ Action: Mention this to your dentist—even if your gums look healthy.

⚠️ 7. Ear Pain Without Infection

What it feels like: One-sided earache with no signs of ear infection (no fever, discharge, or hearing loss).
Why it matters: Throat cancers can cause “referred pain” to the ear.
✅ Action: If it persists beyond 10 days, seek medical advice.

🚫 Major Risk Factors to Know

Tobacco use (smoking or smokeless)—#1 cause
Heavy alcohol consumption (risk multiplies with tobacco)
HPV infection (especially HPV-16—linked to oropharyngeal cancer)
UV exposure (for lip cancer)
Age: Most cases occur over 40—but HPV-related cancers are rising in younger adults

❤️ Prevention & Early Detection

Monthly self-exam: Use a flashlight and mirror to check lips, gums, cheeks, tongue (lift it!), and roof/floor of mouth.
Dental checkups: Dentists screen for oral cancer at routine visits—don’t skip them!
HPV vaccination: Recommended for ages 9–45 to prevent HPV-related cancers.
Quit tobacco: Even after decades, quitting reduces risk significantly.

💬 When to See a Doctor or Dentist

“If any mouth symptom lasts longer than 2–3 weeks—especially if you use tobacco or drink heavily—get it checked. Better safe than sorry.”

Early detection saves lives. And remember: oral cancer can affect anyone, even non-smokers.

“Your mouth speaks volumes—listen when it whispers.” 🌿🩺