Oral Cancer: Warning Signs, Risk Factors, and Early Detection

See text alternative for infographic Oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer are among the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer when detected early. Regular screenings, awareness of symptoms, and healthy lifestyle choices can play an important role in early diagnosis and improved outcomes.

Anthony Morlandt, D.D.S., M.D., F.A.C.S., a head and neck surgeon and oral cancer expert with UAB Dentistry, says early detection remains one of the most powerful tools for fighting this disease.

“Most often oral cancer develops in the surface tissue of the mouth and if undetected, it can begin penetrating deeper. That’s what makes early detection so important.” - Anthony Morlandt, D.D.S., M.D., F.A.C.S.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer develops in the mouth, while oropharyngeal cancer affects structures farther back in the throat. Oral cancer can occur on the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, and roof of the mouth. Oropharyngeal cancer commonly affects the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue.

“Most often oral cancer develops in the surface tissue of the mouth and if undetected, it can begin penetrating deeper,” Morlandt said. “That’s what makes early detection so important.”

These cancers can occur in people of all ages, although risk increases with age and an increasing number of younger adults are being diagnosed. Because symptoms can be subtle in the early stages, regular dental and medical examinations play an important role in detection and diagnosis.

Oral cancer risk factors

There is no single cause of oral cancer, but several factors can increase a person's risk.

“There is no single cause for oral and oropharyngeal cancer, but certain factors can put you at increased risk,” Morlandt said.

Common risk factors include tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged sun or ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, particularly to the lips, and poor nutrition. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is now recognized as a significant contributor to oropharyngeal cancers, making vaccination an important prevention strategy.

Signs and symptoms of oral cancer

Recognizing symptoms early can improve treatment outcomes. Warning signs may include:

• A sore that does not heal
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Unusual lumps or thickened tissue
• Bleeding sores
• Difficulty chewing, speaking, or swallowing
• Persistent sore throat
• Hoarseness
• Ear pain
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

“You could have a hoarse voice, ear pain, or a sore throat that doesn’t quit,” Morlandt said. “This cancer can also present as white or red patches that won’t go away or a sore that bleeds and will not heal.”

“If you notice something lingers more than a couple of weeks, you should get screened right away,” he said.

How to help prevent oral cancer

While not every case can be prevented, several steps can reduce risk.

Avoid tobacco products, including cigarettes and chewing tobacco. Limit alcohol consumption, protect your lips and skin from excessive sun exposure, and maintain a healthy diet.

Vaccination against HPV is also an important preventive measure. Studies have shown that reducing HPV infection can help lower the risk of certain HPV-related cancers.

Why oral cancer screenings matter

Oral cancer screenings are a simple but important part of preventive health care. Patients should contact a health care provider if they develop symptoms such as persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, ear pain, or swollen lymph nodes.

“Your dentist also plays an important role in detection since every dental appointment presents an opportunity to be screened,” Morlandt said.

In addition to regular dental visits, monthly self-examinations can help people become familiar with their mouths and identify changes that warrant professional evaluation. Look for unusual sores, swelling, red patches, white patches, or other changes that do not resolve normally.

Specialized oral cancer care at UAB

UAB provides specialized care for patients diagnosed with oral cancer and other head and neck conditions.

A multidisciplinary UAB Medicine and UAB Dentistry team includes surgeons, prosthodontists, physician assistants, nurse coordinators, and other specialists who work together to coordinate care and support patients throughout treatment. Advanced technologies, including 3D surgical planning and navigation, help support precise surgical treatment and reconstruction when needed.

Early detection can save lives

Like many forms of cancer, oral cancer is most treatable when diagnosed early. Paying attention to symptoms, attending regular dental and medical appointments, and reducing known risk factors can help protect both your oral health and your overall well-being.

If you notice a sore, lump, red or white patch, or another unusual change that does not go away, do not wait. Early evaluation may make all the difference.