April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and a powerful reminder to be first when it comes to protecting your health. Oral cancer often develops without clear warning signs, so routine screenings during your dental visits are one of the most important steps you can take for early detection.

Not Just a Smoker’s Disease

Oral cancer isn’t limited to people who use tobacco. Factors like frequent alcohol use, HPV infection, prolonged sun exposure on the lips, and even genetic predisposition can play a role. That’s why regular screenings are important for everyone—not just those with obvious risks.

Symptoms Can Be Easy to Miss

This disease doesn’t always start with pain. Look out for persistent mouth sores, color changes in the tissue, difficulty swallowing, or a lump that doesn’t go away. If something feels off and doesn’t improve after two weeks, don’t ignore it.

What to Expect from a Screening

Screenings for oral cancer are quick, comfortable, and usually done during your regular dental checkup. Your provider will examine the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat for anything abnormal. If caught early, treatment is typically more effective and less invasive.

Prevention Starts with Routine Care

Good daily habits like brushing, flossing, using sun protection for your lips, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol can lower your risk. But the best preventive move is showing up for your dental visits and allowing your provider to check for early signs.

Take Charge—Be First

When it comes to oral cancer, early action makes all the difference. Be first to notice, first to act, and first to protect your future. Schedule your oral cancer screening today at Dossett Dental and stay ahead of what you can’t see coming.

To schedule a visit to our Hurst, TX office, call 817-270-9217 or schedule online. To visit one of our other locations, call 972-787-1869 in McKinney, TX or 214-740-6082 in Frisco, TX.