Mouth cancer
Mouth cancer (oral cancer) is when a cancer grows in part of the mouth. This can be on the roof of the mouth, the floor of the mouth (under the tongue) or inside the cheeks. It can also be on the tongue, lips or gums.
Causes of mouth cancer
We do not know the exact cause of mouth cancer, but some things increase your risk, such as:
- smoking or using tobacco in other ways, such as chewing
- drinking a lot of alcohol
- spending time in the sun or on a sunbed without protection
- infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV).
Symptoms of mouth cancer
Symptoms include:
- a swelling or sore (ulcer) in your mouth or on your lip that does not heal within a few weeks
- a white or red patch in your mouth or on your tongue
- a lump in your mouth or under your jaw
- numbness on your tongue or other areas of your mouth
- unexpected loose teeth
- pain when you are chewing or swallowing.
These symptoms can be caused by other conditions, but it is important to be checked by your healthcare provider or dentist. Finding a mouth cancer early gives the best chance of being fully cured.
Diagnosing mouth cancer
Your healthcare provider or dentist will will talk to you about your symptoms and examine your mouth.
If there is a possible cancer growth, they will take a sample (biopsy) to be looked at in a laboratory.
If cancer is found, you might need tests to see how far it has spread, for example, an x-ray, CT or MRI scan.
Treating mouth cancer
Your treatment will depend on the size and type of cancer, how far it has spread and your general health.
Options include:
- surgery
- radiotherapy
- chemotherapy.
It may also be a combination of these treatments.
Many mouth cancers can be completely cured, especially if they are found early.
Self care when you have cancer
It is important to take care of yourself when you have cancer. Try to:
- eat as well as you can
- get regular physical activity
- get plenty of sleep
- talk to the people who care about you
- accept or ask for help when you need it.
Preventing mouth cancer
Smoking is the biggest risk factor. Being or becoming smokefree is the best way of preventing mouth cancer.
Other things you can do to reduce your risk include:
- limiting alcohol
- protecting yourself from too much sun
- practice good mouth care — regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can reduce bacterial buildup and inflammation,
- which can contribute to cancer development
- eating a variety of colourful vegetables and fruit each day
- having the HPV vaccination.
Cancer support
Once someone has been diagnosed with cancer, we know there are some difficult days ahead. No matter where you are on the cancer pathway, there is always someone to connect with for support.
There are local services available to help make things easier for you and your whānau.
Support we offer — Cancer Society
There are a number of benefits of belonging to a support group.