What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in any part of the mouth or lips. Most oral cancers start in the lining of the lips or mouth where you have thin, flat cells called squamous cells. This type of cancer may also be called oral cavity cancer or oropharyngeal cancer.

Symptoms of oral cancer include sores or lumps on the lips or in your mouth. Talk with your doctor if you have any of these signs:

• A sore on your lip or in your mouth that bleeds easily and doesn't heal
• A lump or thickening on your lips, gums, cheek, or in your mouth
• A white or red patch on your gums, your tongue, tonsils, or the lining of your mouth
• A sore throat or a feeling that something is caught in your throat
• Unexplained difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue
• Numbness or pain in your tongue or other areas of your lips or mouth
• Swelling in your jaw that makes your teeth loose or your dentures fit poorly
• Changes in your voice
• Dry mouth

Your dentist or doctor may look closely at your lips, mouth, or throat to check for signs of oral cancer. Other tests may be needed if there are possible signs of cancer. These tests may include a biopsy, an X-ray, or an MRI.

Treatment for oral cancer is based on the stage of the cancer and other things, such as your overall health. Treatment options may include:

Surgery.

The doctor may remove the cancer along with a border of normal tissue around it, called a margin.

Radiation therapy.

This uses high-dose X-rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Chemotherapy.

These medicines kill fast-growing cells, including cancer cells and some normal cells. Chemotherapy and radiation may be given together. This is called chemoradiation.

In some cases, targeted therapy or immunotherapy may be an option. A clinical trial may be a good choice.

Your doctor will talk with you about your options and then make a treatment plan.

Taking medicines as prescribed and getting enough sleep may help you feel better. If it's hard to eat, talk to your doctor or a dietitian. Get some physical activity each day if you can. Consider joining a support group or talking with a counselor.