Oral cancer can develop in the mouth, lips, tongue, gums, or the back of the throat. It's important to recognize the warning signs early for a better chance of successful treatment. Here are five warning signs of oral cancer:

1. Persistent Mouth Sores
   Sores or ulcers that do not heal within two weeks could be a sign of oral cancer. These sores may appear on the lips, gums, tongue, or the inside of the cheeks and may become painful over time.

2. White or Red Patches in the Mouth
   Unexplained white or red patches on the gums, tongue, or inside the mouth may indicate precancerous or cancerous changes. These patches may be painful or bleed easily.

3. Lumps or Thickening in the Mouth or Throat
   A lump, thickened tissue, or mass in the mouth or neck that feels unusual could be a sign of oral cancer. These growths may be painless initially but can grow and cause discomfort.

4. Pain or Difficulty Swallowing
   Difficulty swallowing, feeling like food is getting stuck in the throat, or persistent pain while chewing or swallowing can be a sign that cancer has affected the mouth or throat.

5. Unexplained Bleeding or Numbness
   Bleeding in the mouth without a clear cause or a feeling of numbness or pain in the tongue or other areas of the mouth can also signal oral cancer. These symptoms should not be ignored.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early detection of oral cancer can improve the chances of successful treatment.