Most of us are aware of breast, colon, and prostate cancer. We’ve been taught about many of their symptoms and when to get screenings, but what about cancer of the mouth?

Our expert, Raghu Kunamneni, M.D., an oncologist at Riverview Medical Center, explains everything you need to know.

What is cancer of the mouth?

“Cancer of the mouth generally refers to cancer of the oral cavity, including the region from the lips, roof of the mouth, floor of the mouth and tongue,” says Dr. Kunamneni. 

While mouth cancer could appear in any of those areas, the tongue and the base of the tongue are most commonly affected.

What are the symptoms of mouth cancer?

Dr. Kunamneni says many mouth cancers don’t have any symptoms, but in some cases, you may notice:

• Bleeding
• Lesions
• Irritation
• Swelling of the neck

“If you notice any abnormal bleeding or pain and it persists, you should consult your doctor or dentist,” says Dr. Kunamneni.

Who is at risk for mouth cancer?

Dr. Kunamneni says the two main factors that increase your risk for mouth cancer are:

• Tobacco
• Alcohol

Tobacco use refers to both smoke and smokeless varieties like chewing tobacco. Vaping may increase the risk of mouth cancer, but more research is needed. 

Tobacco use exposes your mouth cells to dangerous cancer-causing chemicals, and excessive alcohol consumption can irritate your cells causing mutations, making them vulnerable to mouth cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, people who smoke and drink heavily are about 30 times more likely to develop mouth cancer than those that don’t.

Dr. Kunamneni adds that other risk factors include:

• Immunodeficiency
• Radiation exposure from a prior cancer diagnosis

A weakened immune system makes it difficult for your body to detect and destroy cancer cells, increasing your risk of allowing abnormal cells to grow uncontrollably. And while radiation exposure kills cancer cells, it may also damage the DNA in healthy cells leading to new uncontrolled cell growth and subsequent new cancers.

Oral cavity cancer also may be linked to human papillomavirus (HPV). There does not appear to be a genetic component.

Prevention for Mouth Cancer

Quitting tobacco use and moderating alcohol intake are the two most significant preventative measures to take in preventing mouth cancer. This means limiting it to one drink per day for women and two for men.

The HPV vaccine also could help prevent mouth cancer.

“There is a good chance that your dentist will pick up on any abnormalities you may have,” says Dr. Kunamneni. Because dentists are the experts on mouth health and its suspicious symptoms, it’s best to see your dentist at least once a year, and more often if problems exist.

Treatment of Mouth Cancer

If you are diagnosed with mouth cancer, your treatment will greatly vary depending on the stage and area the cancer is affecting. The primary treatments for stages 1 and 2 are surgery and radiation, Dr. Kunamneni says. However, surgery may not be an option if it would leave your mouth without the ability to function well, such as being unable to consume foods normally.

For later stages and those who may not be able to have surgery, the treatment usually includes chemotherapy and radiation.

Mouth Cancer Outlook

The American Cancer Society estimates there will be about 58,450 new cases of oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer in 2024. But, as Dr. Kunamneni says, “The prognosis, especially for early detection, is excellent,” and even later-stage mouth cancer can be controlled for many years.

Remember to include your mouth when taking care of your whole body. And Dr. Kunamneni cautions, “Never ignore anything. Since we don’t have other preventative measures, make sure to get those regular dental checkups.”

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Raghu K. Kunamneni, M.D.
• To make an appointment with an oncologist near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Learn more about cancer care at Hackensack Meridian Health

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.