April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on education and early detection. Oral cancer can be serious, but when it is found early, treatment is much more successful. Understanding the warning signs and risk factors can help protect your health.
At Columbia Family Dentistry, Dr. Wilburn is committed to helping patients stay informed about oral cancer in Columbia and the importance of routine screenings.
If you need a dental checkup, call our office today at 931-548-6161 to schedule an appointment.
Oral cancer develops when abnormal cells grow out of control in the mouth or throat. It can affect the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, roof of the mouth, floor of the mouth, and even the back of the throat. These abnormal cells can form sores, lumps, or thick patches that do not heal properly.
Like many cancers, oral cancer can spread if it is not treated early. The challenge is that early stages often cause little or no pain. That’s why regular dental visits play such an important role in detection.
One of the most common signs of oral cancer is a sore that does not heal within two weeks. While small mouth sores are common, they usually go away on their own. If a sore lingers or continues to grow, it should be checked right away.
Other warning signs include:
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment promptly. Early evaluation improves outcomes for oral cancer in Columbia.
Certain habits and health conditions increase the risk of oral cancer. Tobacco use is the leading risk factor. This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and vaping products. Tobacco contains harmful chemicals that damage the cells lining your mouth.
Excessive alcohol use also raises risk. Alcohol irritates oral tissues, making them more vulnerable to harmful changes. When tobacco and alcohol are used together, the risk increases significantly.
Human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV-16, is another important risk factor. HPV-related oral cancers often affect the back of the throat and may occur in people without a history of smoking.
Additional risk factors include prolonged sun exposure (which increases the risk of lip cancer), a weakened immune system, and a poor diet lacking fruits and vegetables. Age also plays a role, as oral cancer is more common in adults over 40, though it can occur at any age.
Understanding these risks can help you make informed decisions about your health.
Many people assume that cancer always causes severe discomfort. In reality, early oral cancer may not hurt at all. This is why routine screenings are so important.
During your dental exam, Dr. Wilburn checks your lips, gums, cheeks, tongue, and throat for unusual changes. She may also gently feel your jaw and neck for swelling or lumps. These screenings are quick and painless but can make a life-saving difference.
You can lower your risk of oral cancer by making healthy choices. Avoid tobacco products and limit alcohol consumption. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables supports your immune system and overall health.
Regular dental visits allow our team to monitor changes over time and detect problems early.
Routine dental exams include oral cancer screenings as part of comprehensive care. Even if you feel healthy, these visits allow Dr. Wilburn to look for subtle signs that may not be obvious to you.
If something unusual is found, early referral for further testing can improve treatment success and recovery.
Staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself. Pay attention to changes in your mouth and don’t ignore symptoms that last more than two weeks. Early detection truly saves lives.
If it’s been a while since your last dental visit, now is a great time to schedule one. Call Columbia Family Dentistry today at 931-548-6161 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Wilburn. Taking action now can help protect your smile — and your life.
