Misconceptions about Oral Cancer during Oral Cancer Month
April 16, 2025
Top 5 Misconceptions About Oral Cancer – What You Need to Know This April
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on a disease that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. Oral cancer is more common than most people think, and early detection is key to improving outcomes. Unfortunately, several myths and misconceptions surround this disease, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Let’s break down the top five misconceptions about oral cancer—and the facts that everyone should know.
1. Misconception: Oral cancer only affects smokers
Reality: While tobacco use (including smoking and chewing tobacco) is a major risk factor, non-smokers can also develop oral cancer. Other contributors include excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure (which can affect the lips), poor oral hygiene, and most notably, HPV (human papillomavirus)—a growing cause of oral cancers, especially in younger individuals.2. Misconception: Oral cancer is rare
Reality: Oral cancer is actually one of the most common cancers worldwide. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, over 54,000 Americans are diagnosed annually, and nearly 11,000 will die from it. These numbers are significant, especially given that early-stage oral cancer is highly treatable.3. Misconception: If you don’t feel pain, there’s nothing to worry about
Reality: Many early signs of oral cancer are painless, which is why regular dental check-ups are so important.
Symptoms may include:
-Persistent mouth sores
-Red or white patches
-Lumps or thickening of the cheek
-Difficulty swallowing or moving the jaw/tongue
If you notice something that doesn’t heal or go away in a couple of weeks, get it checked—don’t wait for it to hurt.
Symptoms may include:
-Persistent mouth sores
-Red or white patches
-Lumps or thickening of the cheek
-Difficulty swallowing or moving the jaw/tongue
If you notice something that doesn’t heal or go away in a couple of weeks, get it checked—don’t wait for it to hurt.
4. Misconception: Only older adults get oral cancer
Reality: Oral cancer can affect people of all ages. While it’s more common in individuals over 40, the rise of HPV-related oral cancers means that younger adults are increasingly at risk—especially those in their 20s and 30s. The myth that it’s an “older person’s disease” can delay awareness and action in younger populations.5. Misconception: My dentist doesn’t check for oral cancer
Reality: Most dentists perform oral cancer screenings as part of routine exams, often without you even realizing it. They check your lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat for abnormalities. Still, it’s a good idea to ask your dentist specifically about oral cancer screening—especially if you have risk factors or notice unusual symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Awareness is the first step in prevention. This Oral Cancer Awareness Month, take a few moments to:
-Schedule a dental check-up
-Do a self-exam at home
-Talk to Dr. Esfandiari about your risk factors
-Talk to Dr. Esfandiari about your risk factors
-Share this post to help educate others
Early detection saves lives—and busting these myths could help someone you know catch the signs before it's too late.
Contact Us
Dr. Frank Esfandiari makes it easy to get back on track if it's been a while since you've seen the dentist. You can make an appointment online by clicking here, or call us 805-777-7717.
Take A Tour
We've launched a video for you to see what's inside our Thousand Oaks offices. When choosing a dentist we know it's important to feel safe, comfortable and familiar with your surroundings.
0 comments