Mouth cancer—also known as oral cancer—is a type of head and neck cancer that can develop in various parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and the floor of the mouth. It is often diagnosed and treated similarly to throat cancer.
This serious condition is more common in men than women and usually occurs after the age of 40. In India alone, 77,003 new cases of mouth cancer were reported this year, and sadly, 52,067 people lost their lives to it. Early detection is key—when caught before it spreads to the lymph nodes in the neck, the chances of successful treatment significantly improve.
Types of Mouth (Oral) Cancer
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Lip Cancer
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Tongue Cancer
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Inner Cheek Cancer
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Gum Cancer
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Cancer of the Floor of the Mouth
If you notice any unusual symptoms, don’t delay—visit your dentist immediately. Experts recommend getting a full oral examination at least twice a year to catch signs early.
You can consult renowned Mouth Cancer Specialist Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit for expert diagnosis and treatment.
Common Symptoms of Mouth Cancer
Mouth cancer can be hard to detect in its early stages, especially because it may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, people who smoke or consume alcohol regularly should be especially vigilant.
Watch out for:
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A sore or blister in the mouth or on the lips that doesn’t heal
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Swelling or lump in the mouth
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Unexplained bleeding from the mouth
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Loose teeth without any clear reason
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Persistent mouth pain or trouble swallowing
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A lump in the neck
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Unexplained earache
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Sudden weight loss
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Numbness in the lips, face, neck, or chin
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Red or white patches inside the mouth or on the lips
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Jaw stiffness or pain
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Dry mouth
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Tongue discomfort
Note: These symptoms may also indicate other conditions. But if you experience one or more of them—especially if they persist—don’t ignore them. See your doctor or dentist promptly.
What Causes Mouth Cancer?
Several lifestyle factors can increase the risk:
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Smoking (cigarettes, cigars, or pipes)
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Tobacco use in any form (chewing or snuff)
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Heavy alcohol consumption
Stages of Mouth Cancer
Understanding the stages helps determine the best treatment approach and chances of recovery:
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Stage 1:Â Tumor is less than 1 inch; hasn’t reached lymph nodes.
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Stage 2: Tumor grows to 1–2 inches; still hasn’t spread.
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Stage 3:Â Tumor is over 2 inches or has reached nearby lymph nodes.
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Stage 4:Â Cancer has spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, or other parts of the body.
Takeaway
Early detection saves lives. Regular dental check-ups and paying attention to changes in your mouth can make a big difference. If you have concerns, don’t wait—speak to a specialist like Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit for professional care and guidance.
