May 22, 2025
The numbers are staggering. Oral cancer is estimated to kill one person every hour, 24 hours a day. This year alone, about 54,000 new cases will be diagnosed, and unfortunately, only a little over half of those affected will survive for five years. This statistic has remained largely unchanged for decades.
Recent research cited in a Delta Dental article has shown that oral cancer is on the rise—and it's not just heavy drinkers and tobacco users who are at risk. An increasing number of young people are being diagnosed with oral cancer, particularly those with no history of smoking or alcohol use. The culprit? Human papillomavirus (HPV). In fact, studies indicate that HPV may have surpassed smoking and alcohol as the primary cause of head and neck cancers in the U.S. Today, approximately 70% of all mouth and throat cancers are linked to HPV. Although oral cancer is most common in individuals over age 50, the fastest-growing segment of newly diagnosed cases is in nonsmoking young adults.
That’s why early detection is more vital than ever. Many pre-cancers and cancers can be found while they're still small during routine oral exams, and early diagnosis can make all the difference in outcomes.
At The Dental Spa, we believe your oral health goes far beyond cavities and cleanings. Our team uses a combination of professional expertise, dental x-rays, and thorough visual and physical examinations of the mouth and surrounding tissues to screen for any signs of abnormal changes. We carefully examine the gums, cheeks, tongue, throat, jaw, and neck for signs of suspicious lesions, lumps, or color changes that may indicate early stages of oral cancer or pre-cancerous conditions. Dental x-rays can also help us detect changes that may not be visible during a surface exam alone.
Early detection is key. Only about a third of oral cancer cases are diagnosed in the early stages, largely because symptoms can be subtle or go unnoticed. With our comprehensive screening process, we increase the chances of detecting abnormalities before they progress, giving our patients the best opportunity for successful treatment.
The American Cancer Society stresses the importance of early detection, noting that screenings can help find cancers at a time when they are most likely to be curable.
More than just teeth, The Dental Spa is committed to managing your complete oral health. Call us today or click below to schedule an appointment and ask how we can safeguard your family’s health with our expert cancer screening protocols.
Click below to schedule an appointment. Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions and help you take the next step toward a healthier smile.