While April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, cancer doesn’t follow a calendar. At Parr Dental, we believe in protecting your health every month of the year. One of the most overlooked but critical components of your dental visit is the oral cancer exam—a quick, painless screening that could make all the difference.
Why Oral Cancer Exams Matter
Oral cancer is more common than you might think. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, nearly 54,000 people in the U.S. will be newly diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year. Alarmingly, it often goes undetected until it’s in an advanced stage.
The good news? Early detection dramatically improves outcomes. When oral cancer is found and treated early, the 5-year survival rate increases significantly. That’s why we check for signs during your routine dental visits—even when you feel fine.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer
While some symptoms may seem minor, they shouldn’t be ignored. Here are the most common warning signs of oral cancer:
- A sore or irritation in the mouth that doesn’t heal
- Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
- Lumps, thickening, or rough spots inside the mouth or on the lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw or tongue
- Numbness, pain, or tenderness in the face, mouth, or neck
- Hoarseness or a persistent sore throat
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms lasting more than two weeks, it’s important to get checked—immediately.
Who Is at Risk?
Oral cancer doesn’t discriminate, but some factors may increase your risk:
- Tobacco use (including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
- Prolonged sun exposure to the lips
- A family history of cancer
- A diet low in fruits and vegetables
Even if you don’t fall into these categories, it’s still essential to have routine exams. Many patients diagnosed with oral cancer have no known risk factors.
Early Detection is Everything
An oral cancer screening at Parr Dental only takes a few minutes—but those few minutes could save your life. Our experienced dental team uses visual and tactile techniques to check your mouth, throat, and jaw for any abnormalities. If we notice anything unusual, we’ll guide you through the next steps with care and urgency.
It’s More Than a Dental Visit—It’s Peace of Mind
We know it’s easy to postpone a dental appointment, especially if you’re not in pain. But remember—oral cancer doesn’t wait. By including an oral cancer screening in your regular dental check-up, you’re taking a powerful step toward long-term health.
At Parr Dental, we care about more than just your smile. We care about you. So even though April has passed, the importance of early detection is always in season.
Book Your Oral Cancer Screening Today
Don’t wait until symptoms appear. Call us or schedule an appointment online today to get screened by Dr. William Parr and Dr. Pat Parr. Because your health deserves more than once-a-year attention.