April is one of the most important months in dentistry—and not just because of the good weather. It’s Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a reminder to get screened often and early every year. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, close to 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer each year. Your dentist can help you avoid becoming part of that statistic. Here’s everything you should know about oral cancer and how to reduce your risk.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is a life-threatening disease that develops in your mouth and throat. This includes your lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of your mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx. It’s also one of the most treatable forms of cancer when caught early.
In fact, the five-year survival rate is about 86% with early detection, compared to only 40% once it has spread. This massive spike in survivability is one of the reasons why regular dental checkups are essential.
What Are the Risk Factors?
Anyone can develop oral cancer, but several factors can raise the risk significantly. The most common include:
- Tobacco Use: Cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and vaping all qualify.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Especially when combined with tobacco.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV): The HPV-16 strain has been connected with a higher risk of certain cancers, especially in younger adults.
- Prolonged Sun Exposure: Particularly on your lips, where the skin is more sensitive.
- Weakened Immune System: HIV, long‑term steroid use, and certain autoimmune conditions or treatments can reduce your body’s ability to fight abnormal cell growth.
What Are the Warning Signs?
Early oral cancer doesn’t always cause pain, which is part of what makes it dangerous. Signs to watch for include:
- Sores That Don’t Heal: Any spot in the mouth that hasn’t healed within two weeks.
- Red or White Patches: On the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth.
- Unexplained Bleeding: Especially if it happens without injury.
- Persistent Hoarseness: Voice changes that don’t improve.
- Difficulty Swallowing or Chewing: A feeling of something “stuck” in the throat.
- Lumps or Thickened Areas: In your cheeks, throat, or neck.
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist or doctor right away.
Oral cancer is insidious, but it’s also very manageable if you take prevention seriously. Visiting your dentist every six months for regular screenings is an easy way to ensure it doesn’t sneak up on you.
About the Practice
At Longmont Complete Dentistry, our talented team provides thorough preventive care for patients of all ages, including oral cancer screenings as part of every comprehensive exam. If it’s been at least six months since your last exam, don’t wait. Your next visit could be the one that saves your life. Call (303) 772-7000 or visit our website to schedule a checkup and cleaning with us.