April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about one of the most serious, and often overlooked, health conditions affecting adults today.
At Neighborhood Dental in Brandon, our goal is simple: help patients stay proactive, informed, and protected through early detection.
What Is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the mouth, lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, or throat. It’s part of a broader group known as head and neck cancers, which impact thousands of Americans every year.
According to the ADHA, nearly 60,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, and thousands of lives are lost due to late detection
Why Oral Cancer Awareness Month Matters
Oral cancer is particularly dangerous because it’s often not detected until later stages, when treatment becomes more complex and outcomes are less predictable.
👉 The good news: When caught early, oral cancer is highly treatable. That’s why April is such an important reminder to:
- Schedule routine dental visits
- Know the warning signs
- Take small steps to reduce your risk
Signs & Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Oral cancer can start with subtle symptoms that are easy to overlook. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.
Common warning signs include:
- A sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal after 2 weeks
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Lumps, thickening, or rough spots
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
- Unexplained pain
- Abnormal bleeding
- Tooth mobility
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get evaluated by your local Brandon dentist as soon as possible.
Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?
While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors can increase your risk:
- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
- Excessive sun exposure (lip cancer)
- Age 40+ (but rising in younger patients due to HPV)
Today, one of the fastest-growing groups diagnosed with oral cancer includes younger, healthy individuals with no history of tobacco use, often linked to HPV.
The Role of Your Dentist in Early Detection
Here’s something many people don’t realize: your dentist is often the first line of defense against oral cancer.
During routine visits at Neighborhood Dental Brandon, our team performs:
- Visual exams of the mouth and throat
- Checks for abnormal tissue changes
- Early detection screenings that take just minutes
These screenings are:
- Quick
- Non-invasive
- Potentially life-saving
How to Reduce Your Risk
Simple habits can go a long way in protecting your health:
- Avoid tobacco products entirely
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Use SPF lip protection outdoors
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene
- Stay consistent with dental checkups
- Talk to your provider about HPV vaccination
Oral Cancer Screenings in Brandon, SD
At Neighborhood Dental Brandon, we believe prevention is powerful.
Oral cancer screenings are:
- Included as part of your routine exam and is covered in our dental savings plan
- Comfortable and quick
- Designed to catch concerns early
If it’s been a while since your last visit, April is the perfect time to prioritize your health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does an oral cancer screening involve?
A screening is a quick exam where your dentist checks your mouth, tongue, throat, and surrounding tissues for any abnormalities or early warning signs.
How often should I get screened for oral cancer?
Most patients are screened during routine dental exams every 6 months, but your dentist may recommend more frequent checks based on risk factors.
What is the 3 finger test for mouth cancer?
The 3-finger test is a general screening method used to assess mouth opening (trismus). While reduced jaw mobility can be associated with oral health issues, it is not a clinically reliable method for detecting oral cancer. A comprehensive oral cancer screening performed by a dentist remains the gold standard.
How quickly does oral cancer spread?
The progression of oral cancer varies by case, but without early treatment, it can spread to surrounding tissues and lymph nodes.
Does oral cancer hurt at first?
Oral cancer often does not hurt at first. Early signs are typically painless, which is why regular dental screenings are important for early detection.
Can oral cancer be cured if caught early?
Yes. Early detection significantly improves treatment success and survival rates.
Who should get screened for oral cancer?
Everyone. While risk increases with age and lifestyle factors, oral cancer is increasingly being found in younger, healthy individuals.
Your Health Starts with Awareness
Oral Cancer Awareness Month is more than a reminder, it’s an opportunity to take action.
At Neighborhood Dental Brandon, we’re here to help you stay one step ahead with preventive care, education, and early detection.
đź“Ť Serving Brandon, Garretson, Sioux Falls, and surrounding communities
đź“ž Call us (605) 370 5493 to schedule
đź’» Book online anytime
A quick screening today could make all the difference tomorrow.
