How do dentists know if you have mouth cancer?

Biopsy: There are typical signs and symptoms but the definitive test is a biopsy.

Tissue changes: We look for patches of tissue that does not look the same as surrounding tissue, in color or texture. Some dentistsuse a special light that causes these patches to appear a different color. We also feel for bumps, which you can do yourself. You are at risk if you smoke or drink alcohol too much.

Signs/symptoms: See oral surgeon or ENT doc if you have any of these symptoms: Persistent mouth sore, persistent mouth pain, a lump or thickening in the cheek, a white/red patch on the gums, tongue, tonsil, or lining of the mouth, a sore throat, hoarseness or feeling that something is caught in the throat that does not go away, difficulty swallowing/chewing.