The appearance of oral cancer in the mouth can differ depending on the stage.
These ulcers can sometimes resemblecanker sores, which are visually similar.
That is why its essential to know the difference between the two.
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It will be a small, raised lump.
Cankers will be painful and heal on their own within two or three weeks.
Mouth cancer ulcers, however, last longer and are unlikely to cause discomfort.
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They will either be white or red.
The white patches are known asleukoplakiathat occur on the mucous membrane of the mouth, gums, or tongue.
The red patches, known as erythroplasia, can appear on the gums, tongue, or mouth lining.
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Leukoplakia patches are typically rough to the touch, irregular in shape, and slightly raised.
Are the Patches Painful?
The red and white patches that develop in oral cancer are typically painless.
You cannot feel the cancerous patches in the mouth.
you’re able to only see them when they develop.
Like other types of cancer masses, they tend to get bigger over time.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Another physical sign of oral cancer is swollenlymph nodes.
When lymph nodes in the neck begin to swell due to cancer, they will form a mass.
In the case of cancer, these growths will come on slowly and cause no pain.
Will I Experience Any Pain if I Have Mouth Cancer?
Unusual bleeding or numbness may accompany this.
In its early stages, you may notice a single ulcer or small patches of white or red.
Self-Exam: Could I Have Mouth Cancer?
Regulardental screeningsare a great way to stay on top of your oral health and check for mouth cancer.
However, there are ways to self-screen at home to see if anything requires medical attention.
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons suggests performing a monthly oral self-exam.
You will want to get a large enough mirror and a light for the exam.
you could see your primary care physician, dentist, or oral medicine specialist.
They may order abiopsy(a removal and analysis of tissue cells) to identify any cancerous elements.
Because of that, knowing what to look for when examining yourself for oral cancer is vital.
People should perform oral cancer self-exams once a month because oral cancer is highly treatable when caught early.
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Canadian Cancer Society.Symptoms of oral cancer.
Mount Sinai.Swollen lymph nodes.
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