Symptoms & Signs of Oral Cancer

The following may be symptoms of oral cancer. If you detect any of these, please contact us immediately for an assessment by one of our surgeons:

  • White or red patches or persistent sores inside your mouth on the gums, tongue, or cheeks
  • Swelling of your jaw without other obvious causes, such as trauma
  • Unusual bleeding, pain, or numbness in your mouth
  • Abnormal lumps in your mouth, cheeks, or neck
  • A chronic sore throat or hoarseness
  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing

Risk Factors for Head, Neck, and Oral Cancer

Your risk for these types of cancer is increased if any of these apply to you:

  • You use tobacco of any kind – including snuff, chew, or smokeless tobacco
  • You use alcohol, especially when used with tobacco
  • You have been diagnosed with HPV, the human papillomavirus
  • You have a weakened immune system