Oral Cancer Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on a disease that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. Oral cancer may not get as much attention as other types of cancer, but it’s just as serious—and early detection can save lives.

So, let’s talk about what oral cancer is, who’s at risk, what warning signs to look out for, and how your dental team plays a vital role in catching it early.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in any part of the mouth or upper throat, including:

• Lips
• Tongue
• Cheeks
• Roof of the mouth
• Floor of the mouth
• Gums
• Tonsils or throat

If not diagnosed and treated early, oral cancer can spread and become life-threatening. The good news? It’s often preventable—and very treatable when caught early.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Oral cancer often starts silently, which makes regular screenings incredibly important. But here are some early warning signs to be aware of:

• A sore or irritation in the mouth that doesn’t heal
• Red or white patches inside the mouth
• Lumps, bumps, or thickened areas in the mouth or neck
• Numbness or pain in the mouth, tongue, or jaw
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
• A persistent sore throat or hoarseness
• A change in how your teeth fit together

If you notice any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, get it checked—sooner is always better.

Who’s at Risk?

Oral cancer can affect anyone, but some people are at higher risk due to lifestyle or health factors. Risk factors include:

• Tobacco use (cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, vaping)
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• HPV infection (a sexually transmitted virus that’s a growing cause of oral cancers)
• Excessive sun exposure (linked to lip cancer)
• Age 40+, although younger people are increasingly being diagnosed
• Poor diet or weakened immune system

Reducing these risks—and getting screened regularly—can make a major difference.

Why Early Detection Is So Important

When caught early, the 5-year survival rate for oral cancer can be as high as 85–90%. Unfortunately, most cases are discovered in later stages, when treatment is more complex and the survival rate drops significantly.

That’s why routine dental checkups are so crucial. Dentists are often the first to spot suspicious changes during exams—even when you feel perfectly fine.

How Your Dentist Helps in Early Detection

During a regular dental visit, your dentist or hygienist can perform a quick and painless oral cancer screening. This includes:

• A visual exam of your mouth, tongue, and throat
• Feeling for any lumps or abnormalities in your neck and jaw
• Checking for sores, discoloration, or tissue changes

These screenings take just a few minutes but can truly be life-saving.

What You Can Do This April

• Schedule your dental checkup (if you’re overdue, this is your sign!)
• Know the signs and share them with friends and family
• Quit tobacco and limit alcohol to reduce your risk
• Eat a balanced diet and protect your lips from sun exposure
• Ask your dentist about oral cancer screenings at your next visit

Oral Cancer Awareness Month isn’t just about spreading knowledge—it’s about taking action. A few minutes in the dental chair could be the difference between catching something early or too late. So, this April, make your health a priority. Schedule that checkup, stay informed, and help spread awareness. Your smile—and your life—are worth it.