Oral Cancers
Oral cancers are a group of diseases that can affect various parts of the mouth, including the jaw, cheeks, lips, tongue, and salivary glands. While often treatable when detected early, these cancers can significantly impact essential functions like speaking, chewing, and swallowing — as well as a person’s appearance and emotional wellbeing.
What is Jaw Cancer?
Jaw cancer, or oromandibular cancer, affects the lower jaw (mandible) and may extend to nearby areas like the floor of the mouth, gums, or the area behind the last molar (retromolar). It usually begins in the soft tissues as squamous cell carcinoma but can spread into the jawbone.
Although rare, jaw cancer can affect speaking, chewing, and appearance. Early diagnosis and personalised care are essential for the best outcomes.
Signs and Symptoms
- Jaw pain, swelling, or a persistent lump
- Loose teeth or dentures that no longer fit properly
- Numbness in the lower lip, chin, or jaw
- Difficulty chewing, speaking, or opening the mouth
- A sore or ulcer that does not heal
Common Treatments
- Surgery to remove the tumour, sometimes including part of the jawbone
- Reconstructive surgery to restore structure and function
- Radiotherapy to reduce the risk of recurrence
- Chemotherapy for advanced or inoperable cancers
What to Expect
Treatment may impact how you eat, speak, or look. Supportive care such as speech therapy, dental rehabilitation, and emotional support can help you adjust and recover well.
What is Buccal Cancer?
Buccal cancer develops in the inner lining of the cheeks (buccal mucosa). It is usually a squamous cell carcinoma that can grow slowly but may spread to nearby areas such as the gums, jaw, or lymph nodes.
Signs and Symptoms
- A sore or ulcer inside the cheek that doesn’t heal
- White or red patches inside the mouth
- Pain, swelling, or bleeding in the cheek
- Numbness or tingling in the face or mouth
- Difficulty moving the jaw or chewing
Common Treatments
- Surgery to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue
- Reconstructive surgery if needed
- Radiotherapy after surgery
- Chemotherapy for advanced cases or combined treatment
- Difficulty moving the jaw or chewing
What to Expect
Temporary changes in eating, speech, or appearance may occur. Support such as speech therapy, nutritional guidance, and ongoing follow-up care can help you return to normal activities.
What is Lip Cancer?
Lip cancer is a type of skin cancer that develops on the lips, most commonly the lower lip. It typically starts as squamous cell carcinoma but can also be basal cell carcinoma or, rarely, melanoma.
Sun exposure is a major risk factor. Although often detected early due to visibility, lip cancer can affect speech, eating, and facial movement.
Signs and Symptoms
- A sore or lump on the lip that doesn’t heal
- Persistent redness, swelling, or pain
- Crusting, bleeding, or a scaly patch
- Changes in colour, shape, or texture of the lip
Common Treatments
- Surgical removal of the tumour
- Reconstructive surgery to restore appearance and function
- Radiotherapy if surgery isn’t suitable or to prevent recurrence
What to Expect
During recovery, swelling, stiffness, or numbness may be noticed. Support with wound care, speech therapy, and sun safety can help maintain your quality of life.
What is Salivary Gland Cancer?
Salivary gland cancer starts in the glands that produce saliva, mainly the parotid (near the ears), submandibular (under the jaw), and sublingual (under the tongue) glands. While most lumps in these glands are benign, cancer can be aggressive and requires timely treatment.
Signs and Symptoms
- A painless lump or swelling in the mouth, jaw, or neck
- Facial weakness or numbness
- Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing
- Persistent pain in the area
- Facial asymmetry or drooping
Common Treatments
- Surgery to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue
- Radiotherapy after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence
- Chemotherapy for advanced or inoperable cases
What to Expect
Treatment may affect facial movement or sensation. You may need support with speaking, swallowing, and emotional wellbeing. Follow-up care is essential for monitoring recovery.
What is Tongue Cancer?
Tongue cancer develops in the cells of the tongue. It can affect the oral tongue (front) or base of tongue (closer to the throat). Early diagnosis is important as it may impact speech, swallowing, and taste.
Signs and Symptoms
- A sore or ulcer on the tongue that doesn’t heal
- A lump or thickened area on the tongue
- Pain while swallowing
- Red or white patches
- Numbness, bleeding, or difficulty moving the tongue
- Changes in speech
Common Treatments
- Surgery to remove the tumour
- Radiotherapy after surgery or if surgery isn’t possible
- Chemotherapy, sometimes combined with radiation
What to Expect
You may experience changes in speech, swallowing, or sensation. Rehabilitation support like speech therapy can assist adjustment. Emotional and psychological support is also available throughout recovery.