What are indicators of oral cancer that dental nurses should recognize?

Unexplained sores and difficulty swallowing are significant indicators of oral cancer that dental nurses should recognize because they can be early signs of the disease. Oral cancer commonly presents as persistent sores or ulcers in the mouth that do not heal and may be accompanied by changes in swallowing capability. These symptoms can indicate the presence of abnormal tissue or tumor growth in the oral cavity, making it crucial for dental professionals to identify and refer patients for further evaluation if these symptoms are observed.

The other choices represent symptoms that can be associated with a variety of dental or medical conditions, but they are not specifically indicative of oral cancer. For instance, unexplained bruises and swelling can arise from numerous issues unrelated to oral malignancies. Dry mouth and sensitive teeth may point to other dental problems or systemic issues but lack direct association with cancer. Likewise, gum bleeding and toothaches can be signs of gum disease or tooth decay but do not specifically suggest the presence of cancerous lesions. These differentiations highlight the importance of identifying specific symptoms that can lead to early detection and intervention for oral cancer.