Should You Be Aware of the Symptoms of Palate Cancer?
Posted on 11/19/2021 by Joseph Kabaklian DDS
While palate cancer may not be common, it is still real. It can be important to be aware of the signs and symptoms, so that you can make more informed decisions about the care of your mouth, and know when to take action. Palate cancer is a carcinoma on the roof of the mouth, otherwise known as the palate. Palate cancer can also be associated with head, neck, or throat cancer depending on the type of palate cancer.
Types of Palate Cancer
There are two types of palate cancer and both types begin in different parts of the mouth or palate. Hard palate cancer is located on the bony part of the roof of the mouth, closer to the front. This type of cancer is actually considered a head and neck cancer. The other type, soft palate cancer, is located in the upper portion of the back of the mouth behind the teeth. This type of cancer is considered one of the throat.
Signs and Symptoms of Palate Cancer
Though both types of palate cancer have similar symptoms, there are some variations. Hard palate cancer often causes an ulcer on the roof of the mouth. This ulcer may start bleeding as it grows. Other symptoms can be bad breath, loose teeth, discomfort around teeth, difficulty swallowing or eating, or a lump in the neck. Soft palate cancer has similar symptoms, but may include trouble swallowing, discomfort when swallowing, mouth sores, weight loss, ear pain, or swelling in the neck.
Cancer of the palate may not be common but it is something that can easily go unnoticed without the right care and awareness. If you are experiencing any symptoms in your mouth or teeth that create concern, we are here to help. Regular visits may help prevent a sign of palate cancer from being missed.
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