Hi Kelley,
If money is an issue, I would go directly to an ENT or head & neck surgeon as too many of us here have had unsatisfactory diagnosis from a dentist, family doctor or even (in my case) oral surgeon. The oral cavity is a highly complex area and requires a specialist. If you have access to a comprehenive cancer center in your area, all the better.

If you do have oral cancer then time is of the essence. It will not get better with time only worse. You obviously have some serious concerns or wouldn't have sought out this site.