Cancer of the mouth (oral cancer) includes cancers on the lips, gums, tongue, salivary glands and the roof or floor of the mouth. Cancer cells growing in these areas of the mouth may spread to the lymph nodes in the neck and into the jaw bones. Early detection and treatment are extremely important for the current forms of treatment to be most effective.

"When oral cancer in any form is detected and treated early, the outlook is good, resulting in a cure in three quarters of cases."

Any lump, sore, ulcer or discolored spot in the mouth that does not go away in 2-3 weeks should be assessed by a doctor. Symptoms such as persistent sore throats, sores under dentures, difficulty chewing or swallowing or a lump on the neck also require medical evaluation.

What causes oral cancer?

As with other forms of cancer, the direct cause of mouth cancer is not yet clear. Research continues on many fronts to find the key to why cells in various organs and tissues of the body begin a pattern of uncontrolled growth (i.e. become cancerous). With mouth cancers, however, we do know that there are several factors that contribute significantly to their development:

• smoking tobacco products - especially pipes and cigars
• chewing tobacco
• the use of snuff
• heavy alcohol consumption
• poor oral hygiene
• chronic irritation of the mouth. For example, from dentures that don't fit well or from the broken or rough edges of teeth.
• exposure to sunlight (lips)

Diagnosis and treatment:

If an oral cancer is suspected, a small sample of the lump, sore, ulcer or discolored spot (biopsy) is taken for examination under a microscope. If the biopsy shows cancer cells, treatment depends on the tumor's site, size and the probability that it has spread. Radiation therapy or surgery are the methods typically used in the treatment of oral cancer. When oral cancer is removed by surgery, nearby lymph nodes in the neck may be removed as well. More advanced stages of oral cancer may involve surgery that requires skin and bone grafts to restore areas of the face and jaw bone.

Prevention of mouth cancer:

• stop smoking (this includes cigarettes, cigars and pipes)
• stop the use of chewing tobacco and snuff
• if you drink alcohol, do so only in moderate amounts
• maintain good oral hygiene - this includes regular brushing, flossing and regular checkups and cleanings at the dentist.
• if you spend time outside, protect yourself from the damaging rays of the sun. A sun protection factor or SPF of 15 or greater is recommended. Wearing a wide brimmed hat will offer extra protection to your face.
• if you are aware of anything that causes frequent irritation to the inside of your mouth, take measures to prevent this irritation.
• Get your mouth examined regularly by your dentist on your 6 month exam.