What it is
Found early, it can often be cured. Dentists can spot early signs at check-ups.
Treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and can affect eating and speaking, so rehabilitation is often needed.
Common signs
- A mouth ulcer that does not heal within 3 weeks
- A red or white patch in the mouth
- A lump in the mouth or neck
- Pain when swallowing
- Loose teeth for no clear reason
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination of the mouth
- Biopsy
- CT, MRI or PET-CT scans
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Biopsy reports
- Scan reports
- Head and neck team letters
- Speech and swallowing therapy notes
Questions to ask your doctor
- What stage is the cancer?
- How will treatment affect eating and speaking?
- What support is there to stop smoking or drinking?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Difficulty breathing, or bleeding from the mouth that will not stop: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.