Oral Cancer Screening
healthy. smile.

Primary risk factors for oral cancer are:

• Tobacco use including smokeless tobacco.
• Heavy or chronic alcohol consumption.
• Viral infections such as HPV 16/18.
• History of white and red patches on the oral tissue.
• Long-term exposure to the sun (lip cancer).
• History of oropharyngeal cancer.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), over 25% of oral cancers occur in the people who do not smoke and have no other risk factors.

Regular dental check-ups, including an examination of the entire mouth, are essential in the early detection of cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions.

Remember - You may not be able to see a small spot or sore yourself. If you do notice any of the above signs, you should call your dentist without delay.

Your dentist has the skills and tools to ensure that early signs of cancer and pre-cancerous conditions are identified. You and your dentist can fight and win the battle against oral cancer.

If you see something that doesn't look right or has not been there before, it's time to ask. Maybe it's not just a common canker sore or a sore from biting your tongue or cheek. And maybe it isn't from biting into a hot slice of pizza. If it doesn't go away in a week or so, call your dentist and have it checked quickly. Early detection saves lives.