Mouth Cancer

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 5, 2024.

AMBULATORY CARE:

What you need to know about mouth cancer:

Cancer cells can form on your lips or inside your mouth. The most common type of mouth cancer is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). SCC is a slow growing cancer that usually does not spread. Squamous cells are found in the skin, organs, respiratory tract, and digestive tract.

Common symptoms include the following:

A sore that will not heal
A red or white patch in your mouth
Pain, tenderness, or numbness on your lips or in your mouth
Loose teeth or a change in the way your teeth fit together
Pain in or trouble opening your mouth
A lump in your mouth or on your neck
Trouble swallowing, or a change or loss of taste
A cough or sore throat that will not go away, or ear pain

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

You have trouble breathing.

Seek care immediately if:

You are having a hard time swallowing.
You have warmth, pain or redness in your mouth or throat.
Your mouth is bleeding and you did not injure it.

Call your doctor or oncologist if:

You have new or worsening symptoms.
You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment

may include any of the following:

Surgery is the preferred treatment for mouth cancer. Surgery is used to remove the cancer cells.
Radiotherapy is a procedure that uses radiation used to kill cancer cells and stop the cancer from spreading. It may be used with or without surgery.
Chemotherapy is a type of medicine that may be used with or without radiation to kill the cancer cells.
Biotherapy are medicines that may boost your immune system making it easier for your body to fight the cancer.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor medicines may help your immune system kill the cancer or keep it from progressing as quickly.
Medicine may be given to prevent or treat a bacterial infection, or to relieve pain. Medicine will depend on the treatment you have.

Prevent or manage mouth cancer:

Do not use tobacco products or drink alcohol. These can increase your risk for cancer or make your symptoms worse. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
Prevent an HPV infection. Some types of HPV can cause or increase your risk for certain cancers, especially SCC. HPV is usually spread through sexual activity. The HPV vaccine is given to females and males, usually at 11 or 12 years of age. It can be given from 9 years through 45 years of age, if needed. It is most effective if given before sexual activity begins. Use a new condom, contraceptive barrier, or dental dam each time you have sex. This includes oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
Eat healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Take small bites, and chew your food well before you swallow. Be especially careful when you eat meat, fruits, and vegetables. A dietitian may help to plan the best meals and snacks for you.
Exercise as directed. Exercise may help increase your energy level and appetite. Ask your healthcare provider how much exercise you need and which exercises are best for you.

Follow up with your doctor or oncologist as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

For more information:

American Cancer Society
250 Williams Street
Atlanta , GA 30303
Phone: 1- 800 - 227-2345
Web Address: http://www.cancer.org

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer