Every April, the spotlight shines on Oral Cancer Awareness Month, an initiative dedicated to educating the public about this often-overlooked disease. Oral cancer affects thousands of individuals each year, yet many people remain unaware of its risks, symptoms and the importance of early detection. By learning more and taking preventative measures, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from this serious condition.
Understanding Oral Cancer
Oral cancer refers to malignant growths that can develop in the mouth, tongue, lips, gums, throat and surrounding areas. If left undiagnosed, it can spread to other parts of the body, making treatment more challenging. According to recent estimates, over 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year, and sadly, more than 11,000 lives will be lost to the disease.
Early diagnosis significantly improves survival rates, which is why awareness and regular screenings are so critical.
Who is at Risk?
Oral cancer does not discriminate, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing it. The most common risk factors include:
- Tobacco Use – Smoking or using chewing tobacco raises the risk of oral cancer substantially.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption – Excessive alcohol use can damage oral tissues and contribute to cancer development.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus) – HPV-16, a common strain of the virus, is linked to an increasing number of oral cancer cases.
- Excessive Sun Exposure – Frequent sun exposure without lip protection increases the risk of lip cancer.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Chronic infections, gum disease and neglecting oral health may heighten the risk.
- Age and Gender – Men over 45 are more likely to develop oral cancer, but cases in younger adults are rising, particularly those linked to HPV.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Oral cancer symptoms often go unnoticed in the early stages, making it crucial to be aware of potential warning signs, such as:
- A sore or ulcer in the mouth that fails to heal within two weeks
- White or red patches inside the mouth or on the tongue
- A persistent lump, thickening or rough spot in the mouth or throat
- Difficulty swallowing, persistent hoarseness or chronic sore throat
- Numbness, pain or tenderness in the mouth or lips
- Changes in how dentures fit or a shift in tooth alignment
If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is essential to consult a dental or medical professional as soon as possible.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
As you can imagine, regular dental checkups do more than just keep your teeth clean—they can also save your life. Our dentists are trained to identify early signs of oral cancer during routine exams. A standard oral cancer screening is painless and only takes a few minutes, yet it can make a significant difference in early detection and treatment success.
Our experienced dental team is committed to detecting issues early for optimal health. We urge you to schedule your appointment with our team to learn more about oral cancer screenings. If any suspicious areas are found, further evaluation or a biopsy may be recommended.
Steps to Lower Your Risk
While not all risk factors are preventable, you can certainly take proactive steps to reduce your chances of developing oral cancer:
- Quit smoking and avoid all tobacco products
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Protect your lips from the sun with SPF lip balm
- Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing
- Get vaccinated against HPV
- Stay consistent with routine dental visits and screenings
Raise Awareness and Take Action
Oral cancer awareness saves lives. This April, make it a priority to learn about the risks, recognize the symptoms and encourage others to schedule routine dental checkups. Share this information with your family and friends—it could make all the difference.
Schedule Your Next Dental Visit
Our Valley View Dental team invites you to contact us to schedule a visit, whether an initial oral exam or a routine dental cleaning and exam. We look forward to helping you create your best health in Romeoville, Naperville, and Montgomery, Illinois. Remember, your oral health is an essential part of your overall well-being. Stay informed, stay proactive and take charge of your smile today!