Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth, and throat. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle, although certain risk factors can increase susceptibility.

Common risk factors include:

Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)

Heavy alcohol consumption

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

Prolonged sun exposure (especially on the lips)

Family history of cancer

Poor diet and weakened immune system

Regular screenings are essential, even if you don’t have risk factors, because early stages of oral cancer often present no pain or visible symptoms.

Oral cancer can develop in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, throat, and the roof or floor of the mouth. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle, but early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Regular oral cancer screenings are an important part of dental care, helping detect potential warning signs as early as possible.

While oral cancer can develop silently, you should schedule a screening if you notice:

• Persistent sores in the mouth or on the lips that don’t heal
• Red or white patches on the tongue or oral tissues
• A lump or thickening in the cheek or neck
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving your tongue or jaw
• Numbness or pain in the mouth
• Voice changes or sore throat that doesn't resolve
• Unexplained bleeding or weight loss

These symptoms don’t always indicate cancer, but they should always be evaluated by a dental professional.

An oral cancer screening is a fast and non-invasive exam that can be performed during your regular dental checkup. At 8 Queens Quay W Dental, we follow a systematic approach to ensure nothing is overlooked:

Visual Examination

We inspect your lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and the floor and roof of your mouth for any discoloration, swelling, or unusual patches.

Physical Palpation

We gently feel the jaw, neck, and lymph nodes for any lumps, firmness, or irregularities beneath the surface.

Tissue Evaluation

If needed, we may use enhanced lighting or rinses to help detect subtle tissue changes that may not be visible under standard lighting.

If we identify anything suspicious, we’ll discuss next steps, which may include further monitoring, imaging, or referral to a specialist for a biopsy.

Oral cancer can be highly treatable when diagnosed early. That’s why we recommend an oral cancer screening at least once a year as part of your regular dental checkup—even if you have no symptoms or risk factors. Routine screenings are one of the simplest, yet most powerful ways to protect your long-term health.