Oral cancer is often overlooked, but it’s a serious health concern that can impact your mouth, tongue, throat, and even your overall well-being. Early detection is critical, as oral cancer can spread quickly if left untreated. Whether you are prioritizing preventive care or just learning about the risks, here are 5 important facts about oral cancer that everyone should know.
1. Oral Cancer is More Common Than You Think
Many people assume oral cancer is rare, but it affects tens of thousands of people in the United States every year. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 50,000 new cases are diagnosed annually. While anyone can develop oral cancer, men are twice as likely as women to be affected. Knowing how common it is underscores why regular screenings are so important.
2. Tobacco and Alcohol Use Are Major Risk Factors
Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes significantly increases the risk of oral cancer. Chewing tobacco and using snuff are even more dangerous because they directly expose your mouth tissues to harmful carcinogens. Heavy alcohol use also raises your risk, and combining tobacco with alcohol multiplies it. Avoiding or quitting these habits can dramatically lower your chances of developing oral cancer.
3. HPV is a Leading Cause of Oral Cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection, is now one of the leading causes of oral cancers, particularly those that affect the throat and tonsils. Many HPV-related oral cancers occur in younger, otherwise healthy individuals who don’t use tobacco. Fortunately, HPV vaccines can help reduce the risk of developing these cancers.
4. Early Symptoms Are Often Easy to Miss
One of the challenges with oral cancer is that its early signs can look like harmless issues. Common symptoms include a sore that doesn’t heal, red or white patches, a lump in the mouth, or persistent pain in the tongue or jaw. Because these symptoms can mimic minor problems, many people delay seeking treatment. Regular dental checkups are essential because dentists are trained to spot early warning signs.
5. Early Detection Greatly Improves Survival Rates
The good news is that oral cancer is highly treatable when caught early. The 5-year survival rate is around 85 percent for cancers detected in their earliest stages. This is why regular oral cancer screenings during routine dental visits are so valuable. Your dentist can often identify suspicious changes long before you notice them yourself.
Oral cancer is a serious but preventable and treatable condition if detected early. Avoiding tobacco, moderating alcohol use, and getting regular dental checkups are some of the best ways to protect yourself.
About the Author
Dr. Steven Kendrick is a graduate of the Oklahoma University College of Dentistry. He has served as a visiting faculty member for Spear Education, as part of the adjunct faculty at his alma mater, and as a mentor for other CEREC doctors. Dr. Kendrick was also recognized in Oklahoma Magazine’s 40 under 40 after opening his own dental office in 2001. Has it been 6 months or longer since your last dental checkup? If so, schedule your appointment through our website or call our Midwest City office at (405) 732-0431.