A member asked:

Other than a white bump, what are the other symptoms for oral cancer?

6 doctors weighed in across 4 answers

Vary: Usually a white lesion is a good sign and less related to cancer. I get more concerned when i see a red lesion that has been there fora while. But, the only way to tell is with a biopsy. You cannot diagnose oral cancer just by appearance. You must see a doctor and take a biopsy.

Answered 7/28/2013

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Read below: There is more to diagnosing oral cancer than looking at a bump and comparing it to photos online. A dentist who regularly screens for oral cancer will take your medical history, age, how often you drink/smoke, and examine the mouth. It's important to note where this bump is. Floor of the mouth? Tongue? Cheek? Gums? How long has it been there? What is your age? These are all important questions.

Answered 7/1/2013

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Dr. Gary Sandler answered

Specializes in Dentistry

Get it looked at!: Any suspicious lesion, especially one that has persisted for more than 2 weeks should be personally seen and evaluated by an oral surgeon (or at least by your general dentist first). Some lesions that appear benign and insignificant can be cancerous, while ones that look menacing can in fact be quite harmless. Biopsies are the only way to know for sure when in doubt.

Answered 12/9/2012

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Dr. John Thaler answered

Specializes in Prosthodontics

Color changes.: Pain is often a symptom of any oral problems. A very commom sign of oral cancer is an area that is red and white and looks irritated. Most often found on the side of the tongue and floor of the mouth. A hardening of an area like this that you can feel is also a warning. Color changes are a cause for concern. See your dentist right away to be checked and maybe referred to an oral surgeon.

Answered 12/9/2012

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