What should you know about smoking and mouth cancer?

Mouth cancer, also called oral cavity cancer, can develop in the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, floor of the mouth, or roof of the mouth. Tobacco smoke repeatedly contacts mouth tissues and contains substances that can damage cells. Risk is influenced by smoking history and may be affected by other exposures, including alcohol. A mouth sore, red or white patch, lump, unexplained bleeding, numbness, persistent throat discomfort, or difficulty chewing does not by itself confirm cancer; several non-cancerous conditions can cause similar changes.

Arrange an examination with a dentist, primary-care clinician, or specialist if a mouth change does not settle. The clinician may inspect the mouth and neck, feel for enlarged lymph nodes, and decide whether a biopsy or imaging is needed. Stopping smoking is a useful health step at any stage; a clinician or smoking-cessation service can help choose a plan, manage cravings, and avoid triggers. If cancer is confirmed, treatment depends on the site, size, nearby tissues, and test results. Options may include tumour removal surgery, radiotherapy, or an operation to assess or remove affected neck lymph nodes.

Seek prompt medical care for a mouth ulcer or patch that persists, a growing lump, repeated bleeding, new facial or mouth numbness, worsening pain, loose teeth without a clear cause, or difficulty swallowing. Seek urgent help if swelling makes breathing difficult, bleeding is heavy or does not stop, or you cannot swallow fluids. These warning signs need assessment because delay can allow an important condition to progress, but they do not establish a cancer diagnosis.

Ask which mouth areas look unusual, whether a biopsy or scan is appropriate, how soon results will be available, and what help is available to stop smoking. If cancer is found, ask how its location affects speech, eating, appearance, and treatment choices.