Vanessa, welcome to OCF. I know you are worried and unsure of which way to turn. All too often dentists will not recognize oral caner. From what you are describing, it does not sound like it is oral cancer. Of course its not possible to diagnose you over the internet but it does not sound like you have the right symptoms.

Best thing to do is find yourself an ENT (ear, nose and throat specialist) who is experienced with oral cancer. A biopsy is the only way to tell for sure if it is cancer. Is it possible to call back to the ENT you have the January appointment with and attempt to get the appointment moved up? Wherever you decide to get checked out just make sure they are experienced with oral cancer.

To me, it sounds like something has irritated your mouth. It could be all kinds of things going on. If you are a smoker, now is the time to quit. Oral cancer caused by HPV+ is usually on the base of your tongue or tonsils not on the areas you have described.

Best wishes!