Welcome to OCF. I am sorry you are scared and worried. Its only natural to be afraid of the unknown.

Make sure the ENT you are going to see is familiar with treating oral cancer patients. Some ENTs specialize in things like putting tubes in kids ears.

I am not surprised that the doctor you first saw dismissed your cancer concern. That type of doctor would not see or treat oral cancer patients so would probably not be able to identify it. Most experienced ENT doctors would be able to visually differentiate between some mouth problems like lichen planus or a gum infection. A cancerous tumor needs a biopsy to correctly confirm if it is cancer or not. The rule we go by around here is if you have a sore in your mouth or throat and it has been there for over 2 weeks then its time to get it checked by a professional. Since you have a sore throat and one side of your tonsil is swollen then you would want to get it checked since it has been going on for over 2 weeks.

To help ease your anxiety, stay busy. Worrying will not change the results or make you feel any better. It will only make you feel worse. Nothing you are able to do will change what is going on in your throat. Dont make yourself nuts by worrying. I know its easier said than done but I have been right where you are. After my first time around, I learned to not let my mind go to the "what if's". Do productive things to stay busy. Clean out a closet, begin an exercise schedule (do push ups every time you start to worry), volunteer to help the elderly, or spend some time with helping children. There are so many charities that could use an extra pair of hands. Helping others will help you to take your mind off yourself and your problems.

Best wishes with your appointment. I hope you wont need to be part of our group but if you do, dont worry, we will help you.