Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, is a type of head and neck cancer. It typically develops after the age of 40, and men are more commonly affected than women. In India alone, more than 77,000 new cases are reported each year, and over 52,000 deaths occur due to this disease.

When detected early, oral cancer can often be treated successfully, but it is frequently diagnosed only after it has spread to the lymph nodes in the neck.

Types of Mouth Cancer

• Lip cancer

• Tongue cancer

• Inner cheek cancer

• Gum cancer

• Cancer of the floor of the mouth

Dentists recommend having your mouth checked at least twice a year, especially if you smoke or drink alcohol regularly. Early detection significantly improves survival rates.

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Common Symptoms of Mouth Cancer

In its early stages, oral cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, you should watch for the following warning signs:

• Persistent sore or blister on the lips or inside the mouth that does not heal

• Bleeding in the mouth

• Loose teeth without clear cause

• Pain while chewing or swallowing

• Lumps in the neck

• Earache

• Unexplained weight loss

• Numbness in the lips, face, chin, or neck

• Red or white patches on the tongue, lips, or mouth lining

• Throat pain or dry mouth

• Jaw stiffness or pain

• Pain in the tongue

These symptoms do not always mean cancer, but they should never be ignored. If they persist, see a dentist or doctor promptly.

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Main Causes of Mouth Cancer

1. Smoking – Cigarettes, cigars, and pipe smoking are the most common causes.

2. Tobacco in any form – Chewing or smokeless tobacco is also a major risk factor.

3. Excessive alcohol consumption – Drinking heavily increases the risk significantly.

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Stages of Mouth Cancer

• Stage 1: Tumor is less than 1 inch and has not spread to lymph nodes.

• Stage 2: Tumor is 1–2 inches, but still not spread to lymph nodes.

• Stage 3: Tumor is larger than 2 inches, or smaller but has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

• Stage 4: Cancer spreads beyond the mouth to surrounding tissues, lymph nodes, or other parts of the body.

Knowing the stage helps doctors decide on the best treatment and predict recovery chances.

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Treatment Options

• Surgery – Removal of the tumor, sometimes followed by reconstructive surgery of the affected area.

• Radiation therapy – External beam radiation or brachytherapy to target and kill cancer cells.

• Chemotherapy – Drugs used to destroy cancer cells, often combined with radiation therapy.

• Targeted drug therapy – Medications that attack cancer cells directly and prevent their growth.

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Important Facts

• Around 80% of cases are linked to tobacco use.

• The average age of diagnosis is about 50.

• Men are at a higher risk than women, and the risk increases with age.

• Early detection gives an 82% survival rate, but in advanced stages, survival drops to around 27%.

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Final Note

Maintaining good oral health and visiting the dentist regularly are the best ways to prevent oral cancer. If you notice unusual symptoms in your mouth, don’t delay—early treatment saves lives.