Mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, comprises 2 percent of all cancers and affects 30,000 American each year, the Merck Manual states. Around 8,000 people die each year from oral cancer, mostly people older than age 50. Early detection decreases the death rate; mouth cancer smaller than half an inch across usually is curable, but 25 percent of mouth cancers are fatal due to late detection. Tobacco use causes 70 to 80 percent of oral cancers, MedlinePlus states, and heavy alcohol use also contributes to oral cancer formation. Frequent mouth examination helps detect early signs of oral cancer.
Skin Changes
Squamous cell cancer, the most common type of mouth cancer, begins on the mouth floor or on the sides or back of the tongue in 40 percent of cases. In another 40 percent, lesions start on the lip, according to Merck Manual. White or red patches, hard lumps, or sores that don't heal may all indicate mouth cancer. Oral cancers feel rock hard and often grow quickly. Ulcers may bleed. Melanoma, most often seen on the skin and related to sun exposure, sometimes occur on the roof of the mouth as a dark blue, brown or black irregular spot. Whitish patches called leukoplakia, and reddish patches known as erythroplakia, may be precursors to cancer and should be biopsied to determine if cancerous cells are present, Ohio State University warns.
Mouth Shape Changes
Teeth may loosen and dentures may no longer fit properly when mouth cancer develops, says MayoClinic.com
Throat Problems
Throat problems such as difficulty chewing and swallowing, feeling like something is caught in the throat or sore throat may indicate mouth cancer, MayoClinic.com reports. Hoarseness may accompany throat problems.
Pain
Pain occurs when cancer invades nearby nerves, the Merck Manual explains. Tumors of the salivary gland can cause pain when eating or when thinking about food, which starts saliva production. Pain may radiate to the ear. Lip and cheek cancers may elicit pain if bitten accidentally. Jaw pain and stiffness can also occur.
Numbness
Cancers of the jaw such as osteosarcoma, a bone tumor, and cancers that have spread from other areas can cause numbness and tingling or a pins-and-needles feeling, Merck Manual explains.
