Where Can Oral Cancer Appear?

Oral cancer is one of the most deadly forms of cancer. This is partly true because oral cancer is not visible to the patient until it has progressed extensively. If you notice any unusual lesions or sores in your mouth that do not seem to heal over a few days it is important to have your mouth screened for oral cancer.

Although deadly when undetected, oral cancer has a very high rate of successful treatment when found early. There are may ways that your dentist can screen for oral cancer including a visual exam, but also newer light-activated technologies.

Oral cancer appears commonly on the inside of the lips, gums and even the roof of your mouth and tongue.

Tongue Cancer?. While rare, tongue cancer is one of the more common forms of oral cancer. Tongue cancer will usually start as a small sore on the tongue that does not seem to heal but can quickly form in to a large mass requiring extensive surgery.

Palate Cancer. Look for sores that never seem to heal on your upper palate, or roof of your mouth, and report any changes to your dentist immediately. Again, surgery can remove these lesions but if left to grow, require extensive reconstruction.

Salivary Gland Cancer. Often occurs when cancer spreads from another area of the body such as the thyroid.