8 Oral Cancer Symptoms to Look Out For

As part of Oral Cancer Awareness Month in April, Drs. Tavakkoli and the team at Nova Dental Partners want to put focus on this specific type of cancer that is rarely discussed in the media but affects around 55,000 people a year. 

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is when cancer is found anywhere on your lips, tongue, gums, cheeks or throat lining. 

Oral Cancer Symptoms

As your dentist is usually the first person to notice any early signs of oral cancer, it’s important to make sure you visit one of our dental practices in Fairfax, Alexandria, and Woodbridge, VA for a check up at least twice a year. In between visits, it’s also recommended to do self-checks on a regular basis while brushing your teeth. If you notice any of the following symptoms of oral cancer, it’s important you don’t delay, and make an appointment at one of our conveniently located dental offices.

1. Unexplained bleeding in your mouth
2. White or red patches in your mouth
3. A mouth sore, lump, or swelling in your mouth
4. Feeling that something is stuck in your throat
5. Pain or soreness in your throat
6. Problem or pain with swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue
7. Ear pain
8. Unexplained and sudden weight loss

What Happens During an Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer screenings are fast and pain-free. If you’ve been to our practice before, you may not have even noticed that we are conducting a screening. One of our doctors will check inside your mouth for sores, lumps and patches in your mouth. 

Risk Factors of Oral Cancer

Anyone can be affected by oral cancer however research suggests that the following factors increase your likelihood of developing oral cancer:

• The use of tobacco products or drinking excessive quantities of alcohol 
• Poor oral hygiene habits and not visiting the dentist regularly
• Too much sun exposure on your face and lips without SPF lip balm
• Poor diet and excess weight
• Men are twice as likely as women to get oral cancer
• Having HPV (human papillomavirus)

Drs. Tavakolli and the rest of our Nova Dental Partners team are available to answer any oral cancer questions you might have about the screening. Contact any of our dental practices in Fairfax, Alexandria, and Woodbridge.