What You Need to Know about Palate Cancer

Posted on 4/20/2016 by Lauren Pollard

A man holding a tin can of smokeless tobacco that can cause oral cancer.

Palate cancer is a cancerous growth that affects the top of your mouth, and it can form on either the hard or soft part of the palate. This is a relatively rare condition, and it is often noticed as a mouth ulcer that won't go away.

While the condition might start off as painless, it can eventually become painful. It is important that you know the signs of palate cancer and what can be done to treat the condition if you receive a diagnosis.

What Causes Palate Cancer?

There are several causes that may be behind palate cancer:

•	Smoking and tobacco. This is the primary cause of palate cancer, and it is estimated that about 90% of all oral cancers are caused by cigarettes.
•	Leukoplakia. This condition results in white patches within the mouth, and it could be a risk factor for cancer.
•	Alcohol. Excessive drinking and alcohol abuse could also be linked to palate cancer.

What Are the Signs of Palate Cancer?

Are you concerned that you might have palate cancer? Your regular dental exams will look for problems in your mouth, and some of the signs that either you or your dentist might notice that could indicate the presence of oral cancer include:

•	Loose teeth
•	Dentures that don't fit any longer
•	A mass in the mouth that might bleed
•	A foul odor within the mouth
•	Difficulty swallowing
•	Lump in the neck
•	Changes in the speech
•	Inability to open the jaw

What Can Be Done to Treat Palate Cancer?

Treatment for palate cancer will vary depending on the stage of the problem. If treatment is needed, radiation therapy, laser microsurgery, and surgery might be recommended.

If you are diagnosed with palate cancer, your physician and dentist will be major resources in finding the right treatment plan. If you're concerned that you might have this condition, make sure that you contact our office right away.