At Shorewood Family Dental Care, we focus a lot on preventive dentistry — from regular dental cleanings to good oral hygiene at home. But prevention doesn’t stop there. Protecting your oral health also means being proactive about oral cancer.
Oral cancer prevention involves two key steps: knowing the risk factors (and how to reduce them) and making oral cancer screenings part of your regular dental visits. Early detection is crucial. The sooner oral cancer is identified, the more successful treatment can be.
Why Screenings Are So Important
During your dental exam, our team looks for early warning signs of oral cancer. If we notice anything suspicious, we’ll guide you to your physician for additional testing. Being proactive is always better than waiting — especially with oral cancer, where early detection can be lifesaving.
Between visits, you should also keep an eye on any changes in your mouth. Knowing what to look for can make a big difference.
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
These symptoms don’t always point to cancer, but they should always be taken seriously:
- Red, white, or speckled patches or lumps in the mouth.
- Sores that don’t heal.
- Unexplained bleeding.
- Pain or difficulty swallowing.
- Trouble moving your jaw or tongue.
If you notice any of these issues, schedule a checkup with your dentist or physician right away. When it comes to oral health, it’s always better to be safe.
Why Early Detection Matters
The survival rates for oral cancer show just how important early diagnosis is:
- 83% survival rate when detected early (before spreading beyond the mouth)
- 62% survival rate when cancer has spread to lymph nodes
- 38% survival rate once it reaches distant parts of the body
Regular screenings significantly improve your chances of catching oral cancer at the earliest, most treatable stages.
The Three Biggest Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
As with any cancer, there will always be cases in which the cause is unclear.
With that said, researchers do know factors that increase your risk of developing oral cancer. We will count down the three most common risk factors below.
1. HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
HPV is one of the most common viruses in the U.S. Most people exposed to it experience no major health effects, but in a small percentage of cases, HPV can lead to cancers, including oral cancer.
A vaccine is available and is most effective when given before exposure, typically recommended for children around ages 11–12. Teens and young adults may also be eligible. Talk to your physician to learn more.
2. Alcohol
Heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of oral cancer. Research shows that people who drink three or more alcoholic beverages a day are more likely to develop it. Reducing or eliminating alcohol can significantly lower your risk.
3. Tobacco Use
Tobacco remains the leading risk factor for oral cancer, linked to 75–90% of cases. This includes cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, dip, and even vaping, which early studies suggest may also raise risk. Quitting tobacco is the single most powerful step you can take to protect your health.
Protect Your Oral Health: Get Screened Today
At Shorewood Family Dental Care, every dental exam includes an oral cancer screening. It’s just one more way we help you maintain not only a healthy smile but also overall health and peace of mind.
Don’t wait until symptoms appear, prevention and early detection are key. Call us today at 815-725-5991 today or fill out our online form to schedule your next appointment.
