Every April, we shine a light on a serious but often overlooked health issue—oral cancer. It’s not just something we mark on the calendar; it’s something we talk about because it matters. According to the National Cancer Institute, over 58,000 new cases of oral cancer were diagnosed in 2024 alone, with more than 12,000 deaths. Those numbers have been steadily rising since 2003.

The good news? Early detection and healthy habits can make a huge difference. So, let’s break it down into three simple parts:

1. What signs and symptoms to look for
2. What habits to avoid
3. What you can do to protect yourself

Spot the Signs: How to Self-Screen for Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can be sneaky, showing up with symptoms that look a lot like the common cold. Here’s what you need to watch for:

• Persistent sore throat or cough
• Difficulty swallowing
• Earaches
• Lumps, bumps, or discolored patches in your mouth or on your lips
• Ulcers that bleed or don’t heal after 1–2 weeks
• Swollen or hard lymph nodes (Check gently under your jaw and on the sides of your neck.)

The key here is persistence—if a symptom lasts longer than two weeks or doesn’t improve with typical treatment, it’s time to talk to your dentist. Make it a habit to check your mouth regularly, and be sure to include every area—even the spots that are hard to see.

Want a helpful guide? Check out CheckYourMouth.org for a self-screening routine you can do at home.

Habits That Increase Your Risk

We all know the usual suspects, but let’s talk about why they’re so dangerous when it comes to oral cancer:

Smoking:

Each puff exposes your mouth to over 7,000 chemicals, including 70 known carcinogens. Tar sticks to your teeth, your taste buds dull, and over time, the constant exposure causes cellular damage that can lead to cancer—not just in your mouth, but in 16 different parts of the body.

Alcohol:

Alcohol breaks down into acetaldehyde, a chemical that damages your DNA and increases your cancer risk. It also irritates soft tissues, causes inflammation, and weakens your body’s defenses over time.

Poor Diet:

Nutrition plays a big role in overall and oral health. Diets lacking in vitamins A, D, and Omega-3s (found in foods like fish, soy, and seaweed) can leave your body more vulnerable to disease, including cancer.

Healthy Habits That Protect Your Smile

Let’s end on a positive note! Here’s what you can do to lower your risk and keep your smile strong:

Get the HPV Vaccine

HPV is one of the leading causes of oral and throat cancers. It’s highly preventable, and vaccination is your best defense. Don’t forget—HPV doesn’t just affect reproductive health.

Protect Your Lips

Your lips are skin, too! Protect them from UV rays by staying hydrated, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and using lip balm with SPF or UV-protective lipstick.

Stick to Your Daily Oral Hygiene Routine

Brush twice daily, floss daily, and use mouthwash to reduce harmful bacteria. Keeping your mouth clean lowers your risk of infections that can turn into bigger issues.

Stay on Top of Dental Visits

If you notice something unusual—no matter how small—bring it up at your next dental appointment. Prevention and early action are everything when it comes to oral cancer.

Final Thoughts

Oral cancer is serious, but you have the power to lower your risk with simple, everyday habits. At our dental office, we care deeply about keeping you and your family informed, healthy, and protected.

• Stay aware of any changes in your mouth

• Avoid harmful habits like smoking and excessive drinking

• Prioritize nutrition and regular dental care

• Protect yourself from HPV

• Talk to your dentist—your concerns are always valid

This Oral Cancer Awareness Month, let’s commit to healthier habits and regular checkups. Together, we can keep your smile safe and strong.

Need to schedule a screening or have questions about your oral health? Contact Augusta Family today—your smile is worth it.