Oral cancer is when cells in any part of the mouth become abnormal and begin to multiply at a quick and unstoppable rate. This can happen on the front or back of the tongue, inside or outside the lips, inside the cheeks, along the sinus cavities, at the back of the throat, on the hard palate, or on the soft palate. Any form of oral cancer can cause serious health problems because it blocks some of the body's most important functions. The growth can inhibit breathing, swallowing, or the production of saliva that breaks down food so it can be properly digested.Because this type of cancer occurs in several different types of tissue, treatments vary depending on what part of the mouth is cancerous. The causes of cancerous growths are also varied. Smoking cigars, cigarettes, or pipes can lead to cancer, as can chewing tobacco. Sometimes the cancer is linked to a genetic disposition toward cancerous growths, which cannot be predicted. The most common sign that cancer might be present is a sore or unusual growth that never goes away. If you notice a growth that continues to get bigger, or you experience sores that do not seem to heal, visit your doctor right away.
