Top Causes of Oral Cancer and What You Can Do to Prevent It

Oral health plays a critical role in your overall well-being. It’s about more than just brushing and flossing; it’s also about paying attention to signs that something might be wrong. One of the most serious concerns related to oral health is oral cancer, a condition that can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early.

Each year, tens of thousands of Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimates that over 59,000 people will be diagnosed with and over 12,000 will die from oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer in the United States in 2025. Despite advances in treatment, these numbers highlight the importance of awareness, prevention, and early detection.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer can begin on the tongue, lips, cheeks, or floor of the mouth. It can also begin on the hard and soft palates and in the throat or sinuses. Oral cancer can appear as a persistent sore, a growth, or discolored patches inside the mouth and can spread to other areas of the body.

Oral cancer develops when abnormal cells in the mouth or throat begin to grow uncontrollably. If caught early, oral cancer is highly treatable, but it can have significant long-term effects if not addressed promptly. These effects can include difficulties with speaking, swallowing, and eating. Disfigurement can even occur from surgery or radiation treatment.

Oral Cancer Causes and Risk Factors

There are multiple causes and risk factors associated with oral cancer. Some are related to lifestyle habits, while others are connected to genetics, age, and environmental exposure. 

Age

Oral cancer is more common in older adults, typically diagnosed among patients around the age of 64. As we age, our immune systems weaken, and our cells accumulate more damage, which can increase the risk of cancerous changes.

Alcohol Use

Drinking alcohol can irritate the cells in the mouth and throat, increasing the risk of cancer over time. Alcohol also enhances the effects of tobacco, compounding the damage when both are used together.

Diet and Weight

Poor nutrition and obesity are linked to an increased risk of many cancers, including oral cancer. Diets lacking in fruits and vegetables can deprive the body of antioxidants and other nutrients that help protect against cellular damage.

Excessive Sun Exposure

Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to cancer on the lips, especially the lower lip.

HPV Infections

The human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16, is a cause of oropharyngeal cancers. This sexually transmitted infection has made oral cancer more common among younger people.

Tobacco Use

Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes and using chewing tobacco are some of the most significant risk factors of oral cancer. Tobacco products expose the mouth to harmful chemicals that directly damage cells, increasing cancer risk dramatically.

Weakened Immune System

People with weakened immune systems due to illness, medical treatments, or conditions like HIV have a higher risk of developing many types of cancer, including oral cancer.

Supporting Oral Cancer Prevention

While some risk factors are outside your control, many are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices. Here are a few key habits to help reduce your risk:

  • Avoid tobacco and alcohol consumption: Whether smoked or chewed, tobacco use significantly raises your risk for oral cancer. Alcohol use also raises oral cancer risk, with a heightened risk when combined with tobacco use.

  • Protect yourself from HPV: Vaccination and safe practices can help prevent the types of HPV most associated with oral cancers.

  • Shield your lips from the sun: Use lip balm with a high sun protectant factor (SPF), avoid tanning, and wear wide-brimmed hats when outside for extended periods.

  • Eat a balanced diet: Fresh fruits and vegetables support your immune system and help your body fight disease.

Combining these practices can greatly lower your chances of developing oral cancer and improve your overall health.

Identifying and Treating Oral Cancer

Recognizing the early signs of oral cancer is key. Symptoms to watch for include:

  • A sore or lump in the mouth that doesn’t heal

  • Red or white patches inside the mouth

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Persistent mouth or ear pain

  • Loose teeth

  • A feeling that something is caught in your throat

If you notice any of these symptoms lasting more than two weeks, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. Regular dental checkups are your first line of defense, as trained dentists can identify subtle signs that patients may miss.

Oral Cancer Screening from Durango Dental

Durango Dental includes oral cancer screenings as part of every routine dental exam. Dr. Brad Belt and his team use both visual and physical examinations to identify early warning signs. When needed, we also use advanced imaging technology and tissue biopsies for more thorough assessment.

Screenings begin with a consultation to review your medical history and any concerns you may have. Dr. Belt and your hygienist will then carefully examine your mouth, gums, and throat, checking for any abnormalities. A clear and compassionate explanation of options and next steps will follow if anything suspicious is found.

Early detection of oral cancer leads to a higher survival rate and more treatment options. That’s why we emphasize regular screenings for every patient, regardless of age or perceived risk.

Durango Dental Services

In addition to oral cancer screenings, Durango Dental offers a full range of comprehensive dental care services to help you maintain excellent oral health. Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with modern technology, and our team provides gentle, patient-centered care.

Whether you're coming in for a routine cleaning or a specialized procedure, our goal is to make every visit comfortable and beneficial to your long-term health.

Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today

Your oral health is too important to ignore. Help protect your health by understanding the causes of oral cancer and taking proactive steps that include regular dental visits

If you haven’t had an oral cancer screening recently, or ever, contact Durango Dental. An oral screening can take place during a thorough dental exam. We’ll help you stay informed about your oral health.