Unusual Oral Growths: Symptoms and Risks of Oral Cancer

There is something strange growing in the mouth?

There are two small black spots less than one centimeter in size on the inside of my cheeks, along with some slightly protruding tissue.
My wisdom teeth and upper teeth tend to bite into them.
Additionally, there are white patches on both sides close to my throat that cannot be scraped off.
I would like to know if this could be oral cancer.
I have a habit of smoking.
Please help me understand what might be happening.
Also, I have been under a lot of stress lately, haven't slept much, and have been eating very little for almost a week.
I suddenly feel very dizzy when I stand up.
Thank you.

Xiao Jing, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/08

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Xiao Jing,
Hello! Smoking can increase the risk of oral cancer by 18 times.
If you notice any unusual growths, please seek medical attention promptly! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2016/06/08

More Info

When it comes to unusual oral growths and the potential risk of oral cancer, it is essential to consider various factors, including the symptoms you are experiencing, your medical history, and lifestyle choices such as smoking.
Based on your description, you have noticed two small black spots on the inside of your cheeks, along with some protruding tissue, and persistent white patches near your throat. These symptoms, combined with your smoking habit, raise valid concerns about the possibility of oral cancer. Smoking is a significant risk factor for developing oral cancers, increasing the likelihood of malignant changes in the oral cavity by up to 18 times compared to non-smokers.

The black spots you mentioned could be a variety of things, ranging from harmless pigmentation to more concerning lesions. The white patches, which you describe as "scrapable," could indicate leukoplakia, a condition that can sometimes precede cancerous changes. It is crucial to have these symptoms evaluated by a healthcare professional, preferably an oral surgeon or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, who can perform a thorough examination and possibly a biopsy to determine the nature of these lesions.

Additionally, the fact that you have been experiencing dizziness and a lack of appetite due to stress could be contributing to your overall health concerns. Stress can lead to various physical symptoms, including fatigue and dizziness, especially if you are not eating or sleeping well. However, it is essential to address both the physical symptoms in your mouth and the overall stress you are experiencing.

In summary, while the symptoms you are experiencing could be benign, they warrant further investigation due to your smoking history and the nature of the lesions. It is advisable to seek medical attention promptly for a comprehensive evaluation. Early detection is crucial in managing any potential oral cancer effectively.
In the meantime, consider adopting healthier habits, such as quitting smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing stress through relaxation techniques or counseling. These changes can significantly improve your overall health and may reduce your risk of developing serious conditions in the future. Remember, your health is paramount, and addressing these concerns with a healthcare professional is the best course of action.

Similar Q&A

Unusual Growths in My Mouth: What Could They Be?

Hello, doctor... I have a lump under my scalp, and there is also a small white circle on the right side of my scalp. I feel very scared about it. Can you tell me what it might be?

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Our oral mucosa (including the buccal mucosa, hard palate, floor of the mouth, tongue, and upper and lower lips) maintains normal metabolism under healthy conditions. However, when our oral mucosa (including the tongue) is subjected to abnormal disturbances, such as physical irri...

Unusual Oral Growth: When to See a Dentist or Specialist?

Today I discovered a black growth in my mouth (inside the right cheek) that resembles a hemorrhoid, which I have not had before. I'm unsure which specialist I should see for this issue. Could this be a sign of cancer?

Dr. Wu Jinjun reply Dentistry
1. Dental oral diagnosis or oral surgery. 2. It can only be determined through examination; the probability is low.

Understanding Oral Pathology Reports: Key Insights on Squamous Hyperplasia and Tumor Concerns

In April of this year, an unknown growth was discovered in the upper jaw, which was asymptomatic. After a hospital examination, it was surgically removed, and the pathology report indicated inflammatory cell fibrosis. Less than a month later, a similar growth appeared in approxim...

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology
A / 39 years old / Female 1. Is squamous hyperplasia a bad thing? Will the pathology report show any bad cells? A: It is benign, so it cannot be classified as bad cells. 2. Why did it grow back in less than a month? Is it because it is something bad? Is it therefore impossi...

Understanding Tongue Growths: Causes and Risks Explained

My father recently visited an otolaryngologist due to a sore throat. The doctor found a growth on his tongue that resembles the color of the tongue. The doctor performed a biopsy, but my father mentioned that it doesn't hurt, so he doesn't feel anything unusual. I would...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, based on your description, "there is a growth on the tongue that resembles the color of the tongue," there are many possibilities, including glossitis and both benign and malignant tumors. If you have already undergone laboratory tests, you can wait for the patho...