Oral Cancer: Symptoms  

Oral cancer is often found because a person notices abnormal changes in their mouth. You can check your mouth for early signs of oral cancer. All you need to do is look at your mouth in a mirror. Look for:

• A sore on your lip or in your mouth that won’t heal

• A lump or thickening on your lip, in your mouth, or in your throat

• A white or red patch on your gums, tongue, or the lining of your mouth

Other symptoms include:

• Abnormal bleeding, pain, or numbness in your mouth

• A feeling of something caught in your throat or sore throat

• Trouble or pain when moving your tongue, chewing, or swallowing

• Loose dentures or changes in the way they fit

• Swelling around your jaw

• Loose or painful teeth

• A lump, swelling, or mass in your neck that doesn’t go away

• A change in your voice

• Unintended weight loss

Many of these symptoms may be caused by other health problems. But it's important to see your healthcare provider if you have these symptoms. Only a healthcare provider can tell if you have cancer. Tell your provider or dentist right away about any problems you have in your mouth or throat.