While Breast cancer and skin cancer are two of the most well known forms of cancer, there are countless other types that threaten lives each and every day. One form of cancer that isn't talked about nearly enough is mouth cancer. Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including lips, tongue, throat, cheeks, and the floor of the mouth. Just like any other form of cancer, it can become life threatening if it isn't caught early enough, which is why knowing the symptoms of mouth cancer is extremely important. Continued rough spots or eroded areas on the lips or inside the mouth could be signs of mouth cancer. Cancer can also take the form of velvety white or red spots that decorate the inside of the mouth. Symptoms may resemble other, less severe conditions but an appointment should be made with a doctor if at anytime an individual suspects something more serious. Sore throats are often times brushed aside as a common condition but sore throats can also indicate mouth cancer. Generally, it will feel as if there is something caught inside. An appointment should be made with a health professional if at any point it becomes difficult to swallow, speak, or move the jaw. It is particularly serious if any of these symptoms are coupled with ear pain. While anyone can fall victim to oral cancer, men face the highest risk. This is especially true for men over the age of 50. The chance of mouth cancer also increases if an individual chews tobacco or smokes cigarettes on a regular basis. However, individuals who have a family history of mouth cancer or other forms of cancer should be on the look out for any questionable changes in the mouth. Those who go to the dentist on a regular basis have a better chance of catching mouth cancer before it progresses into a more severe case. Checking for abnormal developments is part of a dentist's routine inspection. Though few people enjoy the trip to see the dentist, it could very well save a person's mouth from more than just a cavity.