Hello, i have been trying to find out whether oral cancer can spread to the lymph nodes without any signs, or if there is always a sore present first?

Yes it can: Can present with a palpable lymph node and on further evaluation, a mass is found in the mouth. However, what is more common is presenting with a mass in the mouth.

Not always a sore...: As is the case in most malignancy, there are occasions where the primary lesion is not discovered, or only found after metastasis to local nodes or distant sites. In oral cancer, these cases are in the minority, but they do happen. Some cancers may begin as surface lesions in areas inaccessible to perfunctory examination; others may start in deeper tissues (salivary glands or connective tissues).

Depends on the cance: It depends on the cancer. Oral cancer usually displays a sore that can be detected. Cancer in the lymph nodes is another type of cancer. See your dentist or an oncologist.

Sometimes: Sometimes oral or nasopharyngeal cancer can spread to the lymph nodes without the primary tumor being detected. This is called cancer with an unknown primary. Most of the time a primary tumor is found. The oral and nasal cavities are so complex it is really impossible to do a thorough exam on yourself.

Yes: Oral cancer is a very large category. There are many types of cancer that can arise in the mouth/throat. Some of these are more noticeable than others. Squamous cell carcinoma or mucoepidermoid carcinoma, for instance can be difficult to detect visually, making it more likely for lymph node involvement early on. Certain types of lymphoma can also be found in the mouth & nodes as well.