Oral Cancer Awareness Month: Why It Matters

April marks Oral Cancer Awareness Month—a time to shine a spotlight on a serious health issue that often goes unnoticed. Oral cancer affects thousands of people each year, and early signs are easy to miss. That’s why regular dental visits are about more than just cleanings—they’re also an important part of cancer prevention.

What is Oral Cancer, Exactly?

Oral cancer includes cancers of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, lips, and the back of the throat. It often starts small—a sore that doesn’t heal, a patch that changes color, or a lump you can feel but not see.

The tricky part? These symptoms can be easy to ignore. They’re often painless at first and may look like something minor. But when left untreated, oral cancer can spread quickly and become life-threatening.

Who’s at Risk? More People Than You Might Expect

Tobacco and alcohol use have long been linked to oral cancer, but they aren’t the only risk factors. Sun exposure to the lips and a family history of cancer also play a role. But there’s also a growing connection between oral cancer and the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can affect people regardless of age or lifestyle.

That means even individuals who have never smoked or drink rarely may still be at risk. This is why regular screenings are so important—they help catch concerns early, when treatment is most effective.

Early Detection Starts With Your Dental Visit

At Alma Dental, every routine checkup includes a quick, painless screening for signs of oral cancer. Dr. Serrano examines your tongue, lips, cheeks, gums, and throat, looking for anything unusual. It only takes a few minutes—but those minutes matter.

If something seems off, we’ll talk through next steps. Often, it’s just a matter of watching the area or referring you for a closer look. Either way, you’ll have answers and a plan.

Oral Cancer Screening in Petaluma, CA

At Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, Dr. Serrano and our team believe dental care is about more than cleanings and fillings—it’s also about prevention. Oral cancer may not be the first thing on your mind when you sit down in the chair, but it’s always on ours.

This April, during Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage you to prioritize that next checkup. If it’s been a while since your last visit, April is the perfect time to schedule. Let’s keep your smile—and your health—in check. Early detection can make all the difference, and these quick, painless checks help catch potential issues before they become serious.

Categorised in: Oral Cancer Screening