Mouth cancer, also called oral cancer, accounts for around 60,000 new cancer diagnoses each year, according to the National Cancer Institute. Oral cancer can begin in the lips, gums or the lining of the mouth, and spread to form tumors all throughout the oral cavity. Patients suffering from oral cancer may develop a number of symptoms affecting the oral cavity due to the effects of mouth cancer.
Lip or Mouth Sores
A common early effect of mouth cancer is the development of small growths or sores that can affect the lining of the mouth or the lips. Early oral cancer development involves the growth of abnormal cells within one region of the mouth, leading to the formation of a lesion similar to an ulcer or canker sore. C. Health, a website run by MediResource Inc., indicates that mouth sores due to oral cancer are typically painless. They also do not heal properly, so a mouth sore lasting more than two weeks may indicate the presence or oral cancer. Patients with long-lasting cold sores should discuss concerns with their physician to rule out the possibility of cancer.
Loose Teeth
Another possible effect of mouth cancer is the development of loose teeth, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. As the oral cancer progresses, the cancerous lesion grows and begins to grow into multiple tissues within the mouth. Oral cancer often grows into the gums surrounding the teeth or into the alveolar bone that holds the root of each tooth. Cancer growth can damage normally healthy gum tissue, preventing the gums from properly supporting the teeth. At the same time, cancer cells induce inflammation, which aids in cancer cell growth. This inflammation can damage the bone tissue, loosening the teeth within the jaw bone. Patients with unexplained loose teeth, or newly ill-fitting dentures, should seek medical attention.
Difficulty Chewing and Swallowing
In its later stages, oral cancer can affect chewing and swallowing, reports the National Cancer Institute. As the cancer spreads throughout, patients may experience pain in their mouth and throat due to damage to healthy tissue during cancer growth. The progressive loosening of the teeth can also lead to difficulty in chewing crunchy or tough foods. Additionally, abnormal growths in the mouth due to oral cancer may prevent the normal movement of the teeth and jaw, while cancerous growths in the throat can interfere with swallowing. If cancer patients can no longer eat properly, they may experience malnourishment and general disease in addition to their cancer.
