Oral / Mouth Cancer
Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and palate. Early detection through regular dental examinations is important.
Understanding Oral / Mouth Cancer
Oral cavity cancers are most commonly squamous cell carcinomas. They can affect the lips, tongue, gums, floor of mouth, hard palate, and inner cheeks. Risk factors include tobacco and alcohol use, and HPV infection is increasingly associated with oropharyngeal cancers.
Common Symptoms
- A sore in the mouth that does not heal
- A persistent white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
- A lump or thickening in the cheek
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Numbness in the tongue or other areas
How It Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis involves oral examination, biopsy of suspicious lesions, and imaging (CT, MRI, PET) for staging. Dental evaluation is important before treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Oral / Mouth Cancer
Is oral cancer related to HPV?
HPV, particularly HPV-16, is strongly associated with oropharyngeal cancers (tonsil and base of tongue). HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers tend to have a better prognosis than HPV-negative cancers. HPV is less commonly associated with oral cavity cancers.
Need Expert Guidance?
Our specialist oncologists are here to provide personalized care and treatment plans for Oral / Mouth Cancer.
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