What are the early signs of oral cancer?

Subtle: A white, red, ulcerated, or thickened area, usually painless, of more than 2 weeks duration. Bring this to your physician's attention since these are easy to overlook on routine physical exam.

A white or red patch: Or any other sore or swelling in your mouth that doesn't go away after a week should be evaluated by a dentist. Oral cancer is very treatable in its early stages. Unfortunately, by the time a patient notices something abnormal, it may be more advanced. Prevention and early detection are essential! see your dentist regularly. Your dentist &/or hygienist should do an oral cancer exam twice a year.