April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month: What You Need to Know.
At Northview Family Dental, our commitment to your health goes beyond just cleanings and cavity prevention. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s an important time to raise awareness about a disease that affects thousands of people every year—but is often overlooked.
Why Oral Cancer Awareness Matters
Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and throat. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 50,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Early detection is critical—when found early, oral cancer has a much higher survival rate.
Know the Risk Factors
While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors increase your risk:
• Tobacco use (including smoking and smokeless tobacco)
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
• Prolonged sun exposure (linked to lip cancer)
• A history of oral cancer or other types of cancer
Signs and Symptoms
Oral cancer often starts silently, which is why regular dental checkups are so important. Some symptoms to look out for include:
• A sore or lump in the mouth or on the lip that doesn’t heal
• Red or white patches in the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Numbness of the tongue or other areas of the mouth
• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
If you notice any of these symptoms lasting more than two weeks, it’s important to schedule an evaluation.
Early Detection at Our Office
During your routine dental visits at Northview Family Dental, we perform oral cancer screenings as part of our comprehensive exams. These screenings are quick, painless, and could be life-saving. If we notice anything suspicious, we may recommend a biopsy to gather more information.
We perform in-office biopsies and send the tissue samples to the Cleveland Clinic for expert pathological analysis. This helps ensure the most accurate diagnosis and gives you peace of mind that you’re receiving the highest level of care.
What You Can Do
• Stay proactive with regular dental visits
• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
• Use lip balm with SPF
• Practice good oral hygiene
• Talk to your dentist about any changes you notice
This month, and every month, we’re here to support your total oral health. If it’s been a while since your last check-up, now is a great time to schedule your visit.
