" My uncle was 38 when he was diagnosed with oral cancer. How can I prevent this from happening to me?" Laura P.

Oral cancer kills more people nationwide than either cervical cancer or melanoma. Currently only half of all patients diagnosed with oral cancer survive more that five years. If detected early enough, the chances of a complete cure are the highest. For this reason, myself along with many dentists make an oral cancer screening part of their periodic dental examinations. Usually an oral cancer screening is at no additional cost to the patient, and consumers should take advantage of this free service.

Oral cancer often starts as a tiny, painless, unnoticed white or red spot or sore anywhere in the mouth. Most people are not aware of its presence. It occurs most often in those who use tobacco in any form. Alcohol use in combination with smoking greatly increases risk. Still, more than 25% of oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and have no other risk factors.

About 10% of people have oral “lesions.” Harmful oral spots or sores often look identical to those that are harmless. Only testing, such as a brush biopsy, can tell them apart.

Laura the best way for you to help prevent oral cancer from occurring is to eliminate any risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol. Since the chances of complete cure are highest when oral cancer is detected early, you should see a dentist at least twice a year for an examination and oral cancer screening.