There are two types of lip cancer: squamous cell and basal cell. The most common type of lip cancer begins in the squamous cells, the thin, flat cells that line the lips and mouth. Common lip cancer symptoms. Lip cancer symptoms are very similar to those of other types of oral cancer. It can often be mistaken for a cold that won’t go away, or a persistent toothache. Other symptoms and signs include: 1  A sore in the mouth that does not heal. 2  Persistent mouth pain. 3  A lump or thickening in the cheek. 4  A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, tonsil, or lining of the mouth. 5  A sore throat or feeling that something is caught in the throat that does not go away.