Not all oral cancer signs are seen by looking into the mouth (Image: Getty)
A dentist has identified potential warning signs of oral cancer that can be easily missed, including symptoms that can be seen without looking inside the mouth. Oral cancer, also called mouth cancer, may impact areas including the tongue, gums, cheeks and lips.
According to the Oral Health Foundation, in its State of Mouth Cancer UK report for 2024, there were 10,825 new cases of mouth cancer diagnosed in the UK – up 38% in a decade and 133% compared with 20 years ago. In the same year 3,637 died as a result of the disease.
The 10-year survival rate is between 18-57% depending on where the cancer is and how early it is diagnosed. This means, as with most cancers, the earlier it is diagnosed, the better the chances of surviving it.
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However, the same report found that under one in 10 people knew the major risks of mouth cancer. It also discovered that just one in five knew the major signs and symptoms of the disease.
Now a dentist is outlining what symptoms to look out for – and not all might be as anticipated. Dr Deepa Chopra, a dentist at Whites Dental, said while some signs can be detected during a dental examination, others may appear more discreetly, reports the Mirror.
She cautioned that recognising early changes could prove crucial, as they may emerge gradually over time, meaning they can be easily overlooked. The dentist said: « Some symptoms may develop gradually and can be mistaken for minor issues. Persistent changes that do not resolve within a few weeks may benefit from professional assessment. »
Dr Deepa clarified that whilst certain indicators do manifest inside the mouth, this wasn’t invariably the case. She said signs that may be visible inside the mouth could include ulcers that do not heal, unexplained bleeding, red or red and white patches, unusual lumps, or teeth that feel loose without obvious cause.
Dr Deepa Chopra (Image: Whites Dental)
The expert also pointed out that not all potential warning signs are located directly inside the mouth. She said: « A long-lasting sore throat, difficulty swallowing, discomfort when chewing, or persistent ear pain could sometimes be associated with changes in the oral or surrounding tissues. Numbness in the lip or jaw area may also warrant further investigation. »
She noted that speech alterations could sometimes indicate cause for concern. « If someone notices ongoing hoarseness, slurred speech or a change in their voice that does not improve, it may be advisable to seek medical or dental advice, » she said.
Dr Deepa emphasised that numerous symptoms could be attributed to far more prevalent and less severe conditions. She explained: « For example, bleeding gums are often associated with gum inflammation rather than cancer, but if symptoms are unusual, persistent or worsening, it may be sensible to have them checked. »
Particular lifestyle choices may heighten risk. These include tobacco consumption, excessive alcohol consumption and prolonged sun exposure to the lips.
The expert advised: « Regular dental examinations may help identify changes early, sometimes before a patient is aware of them. Being familiar with what feels normal for you and seeking advice if something changes could support earlier detection. »
She stressed that awareness does not equate to panic. « Most oral changes are not cancer, » she said.
« But paying attention to ongoing symptoms and maintaining routine dental visits may be an important part of overall health. »
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