Oral Cancer

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancers are malignant tumors that occur anywhere inside the mouth. Most oral cancers are squamous cell carcinomas that start in the surface lining of the mouth. The most common location is the lip or tongue, but oral cancers can occur anywhere in the mouth. Common symptoms include pain, a sore that does not heal, and problems with talking or swallowing.

Alcohol and tobacco use are the biggest risk factors for oral cancer. It is more common in men than in women and typically occurs after the age of 40. Each year, about 37,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with some type of oral cancer (Source: ACS).

Oral cancers, when caught early, are often treatable with either surgery or radiation therapy, depending upon their location and size. After surgery to remove the cancer, reconstructive surgery can help restore structures that have been removed and rehabilitation can help you relearn how to eat, swallow or talk, if needed.

Emergencies related to oral cancers are rare. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) for serious symptoms, such as uncontrolled or heavy bleeding or changes that make it difficult to swallow or breathe. Seek prompt medical care if you develop sores or lumps in your mouth, or if you start having problems eating, swallowing or speaking.