Mouth Cancer

Mouth cancer refers to cancer that develops in any of the parts that make up the mouth (oral cavity). Mouth cancer can occur on the:

• Floor of the mouth (under the tongue)
• Gums
• Inner lining of the cheeks
• Lips
• Roof of the mouth
• Tongue

Cancer that occurs on the inside of the mouth is sometimes called oral cancer or oral cavity cancer.

Signs and symptoms

Mouth cancer is one of several types of cancers grouped in a category called head and neck cancers. Mouth cancer and other head and neck cancers are often treated similarly. Signs and symptoms of mouth cancer may include:

• A growth or lump inside your mouth
• A lip or mouth sore that doesn't heal
• A white or reddish patch on the inside of your mouth
• Difficult or painful swallowing
• Ear pain
• Loose teeth
• Mouth pain

Prevention

There's no proven way to prevent mouth cancer. However, you can reduce your risk of mouth cancer if you:

• Stop using tobacco or don't start. If you use tobacco, stop. If you don't use tobacco, don't start. Using tobacco, whether smoked or chewed, exposes the cells in your mouth to dangerous cancer-causing chemicals.
• Drink alcohol only in moderation, if at all. Chronic excessive alcohol use can irritate the cells in your mouth, making them vulnerable to mouth cancer. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For healthy adults, that means up to one drink a day for women of all ages, and men older than age 65, and up to two drinks a day for men age 65 and younger.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure to your lips. Protect the skin on your lips from the sun by staying in the shade when possible. Wear a broad-brimmed hat that effectively shades your entire face, including your mouth. Apply a sunscreen lip product as part of your routine sun protection regimen.
• See your dentist regularly. As part of a routine dental exam, ask your dentist to inspect your entire mouth for abnormal areas that may indicate mouth cancer or precancerous changes.

Treatment

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is life-altering and overwhelming. Our multidisciplinary team approach integrates services to focus on you, not just the cancer. Learn more and explore our oncology resources.

Treatment for mouth cancer depends on your cancer's location and stage, as well as your overall health and personal preferences. You may have just one type of treatment, or you may undergo a combination of cancer treatments. Treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Our team of ENT experts will discuss your options with you.