April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Delta Dental of Missouri urges residents to recognize the warning signs of oral cancer and adopt preventive practices to reduce risk. Learn more about the importance of oral health and healthy lifestyle choices.
ST. LOUIS, Mo. (April 9, 2025) … Nearly 50,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year, and approximately 25% have no known risk factors,1 which emphasizes the vital need to watch for warning signs and make healthy life choices. In recognition of April being Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Delta Dental of Missouri – a non-profit organization and the state’s leading dental benefits provider and oral health philanthropist – is reminding Missourians about preventive practices to help reduce the risk of oral cancer.
What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is the most common form of head and neck cancer and can be found in the gums, on the tongue, on the roof or floor of the mouth or in the back of the throat. Without treatment, it can spread to other areas of the body.
“Although a person’s genetics or family medical history can increase the potential for developing oral cancer, you can reduce the odds by making healthy decisions and lifestyle choices,” said Nevin Mathai, DMD, dental director at Delta Dental of Missouri. “And, by learning about the signs and symptoms, you can proactively watch for any areas of concern to have them quickly addressed by your dentist or physician.”
Know the warning signs.
Symptoms of oral cancer are wide-ranging and can include:
- Tenderness, numbness, swelling or pain in the neck, jaw, face or mouth
- A lump or growth in your mouth
- Loose teeth
- Persistent rough or crusted areas in your mouth
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or hearing
- Reddish or white spots on your mouth, gums, tongue or tonsils
- Sores on your lips or mouth that easily bleed and last at least two weeks
- Unexpected weight loss
Regular dental exams with oral cancer screenings are strongly recommended to help identify any symptoms. If you experience symptoms, promptly consult your healthcare provider.
Reduce your risk.
Following these preventive practices can help reduce your risk of oral cancer:
- Do not smoke or vape – or quit, if you do
- Do not use chewing tobacco, dip or other smokeless tobacco products
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Get vaccinated for the human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Protect lips and skin when outdoors by using balm and sunscreen with SPF 15+
- Eat a nutritious diet, including fresh fruits and vegetables
Have symptoms? Don’t wait.
“Making healthy choices is critical to lowering your chances of getting oral cancer. And, if you experience symptoms, don’t wait,” said Dr. Mathai. “It’s so important to see your provider to confirm a diagnosis and get treatment early. Acting quickly can save your life.”
1https://aaoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/2017_oral_cancer_fact_sheet.pdf
About Delta Dental of Missouri
Delta Dental of Missouri is a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization and the state’s leading dental benefits provider and oral health philanthropist. It provides more than 2.41 million members with access to affordable, high-quality dental care through group plans tailored to meet the needs of organizations of all sizes, from large corporations to small businesses with two or more employees. Delta Dental also offers dental benefit plans directly to individuals and families. It also provides access to affordable, high-quality vision care through group vision benefit plans. The company proudly supports oral health initiatives, educational programs and charitable causes that help educate people about the importance of dental health and provide free dental care to those in need. Delta Dental of Missouri also created the Missouri Dental Care Resource Guide to help individuals access information about low-cost and free dental care options in their area—available online at https://www.deltadentalmo.com/resourceguide. To learn more about the company, visit www.DeltaDentalMO.com.
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