Hello, I'm Dr. Smith, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. I understand you're concerned about potential signs of cancer in the jaw. It's important to remember that any changes in your body, particularly in your mouth and jaw, should be evaluated by a medical professional.

While I can't provide a medical diagnosis over the internet, I can discuss some common signs and symptoms that could indicate a problem in the jaw that warrants a visit to your doctor or dentist:

* Pain: Persistent or unexplained pain in the jaw, especially if it's accompanied by swelling, redness, or difficulty opening the mouth, could be a sign of cancer.
* Swelling: Noticeable swelling in the jaw that doesn't go away or seems to be getting larger, especially if it's accompanied by pain or numbness, could be a concern.
* Lumps or Masses: Any new or unusual lumps or masses in the jaw that are hard or fixed in place should be evaluated promptly.
* Numbness or Tingling: A persistent sensation of numbness or tingling in the jaw, lips, or tongue, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms, could indicate a problem with the nerves in the area.
* Difficulty Chewing: If you experience difficulty chewing or pain when you chew, it could be a sign of a problem in the jaw or surrounding tissues.
* Loose Teeth: Loose teeth, especially if they're not associated with obvious injury or gum disease, could be a sign of a problem in the jawbone.
* Changes in the Jaw Shape: Any noticeable changes in the shape or contour of your jaw, such as a pronounced asymmetry, could be a warning sign.
* Recurring Sores: Persistent or recurring sores in the mouth or jaw that don't heal within a couple of weeks should be examined by a doctor.
* Bleeding: Unexplained bleeding from the mouth or jaw is not normal and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
* Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant weight loss without any other explanation could be a symptom of cancer.
* Fatigue: Extreme fatigue or a feeling of weakness could be a symptom of cancer.

It's crucial to emphasize that these are just general signs and symptoms and don't necessarily indicate cancer.

**It's vital to seek professional medical advice if you experience any of these symptoms.** Your doctor or dentist can perform a thorough examination, order necessary tests, and provide you with an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Early detection and treatment of cancer is critical for improving outcomes. Don't hesitate to seek medical help if you have any concerns about your health.
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Some of the most common oral cancer symptoms and signs include:Persistent mouth sore: A sore in the mouth that does not heal is the most common symptom of oral cancer.Pain: Persistent mouth pain is another common oral cancer sign.A lump or thickening in the cheek.More items...read more >>