Each April, the Oral Cancer Foundation and dental organizations use Oral Cancer Awareness Month to encourage people to learn the early signs of mouth and throat cancer and to have an oral cancer exam. Most mouth sores and patches are harmless, but any change that lasts more than two weeks should be examined by a dentist or physician. Finding these cancers early generally makes treatment simpler.
How common is oral cancer?
The American Cancer Society estimates that about 60,480 people in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer of the mouth or oropharynx (the part of the throat behind the mouth, including the tonsils and base of the tongue) in 2026, and about 13,150 will die of these cancers. [1]
Who is at higher risk?
Tobacco in any form, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco and e-cigarettes
Heavy alcohol use, especially combined with tobacco
HPV infection, which causes many cancers of the oropharynx
Age, with most cases in people over 40
Sun exposure, for cancer of the lip [2]
HPV-related throat cancer often occurs in people who have never smoked. Most HPV infections clear on their own, and only a small share of people go on to develop cancer. The HPV vaccine protects against the virus types most often linked to these cancers. Ask your physician whether it is right for you or your children.
What does an oral cancer exam involve?
An oral cancer exam is quick and painless. The dentist or hygienist looks at and feels your lips, cheeks, tongue, floor and roof of the mouth, and throat, and feels the neck and under the jaw for lumps. [2] If something looks unusual, the next step may be a recheck in two weeks or a biopsy, depending on what is found. Only a biopsy can confirm or rule out cancer. Read about how oral cancer screening works at our office.
Which changes should you have checked?
See a dentist or physician if any of these last more than two weeks:
A sore or ulcer that doesn't heal
A red or white patch
A lump or thickening in the mouth or on the neck
Ongoing sore throat, hoarseness or trouble swallowing
Numbness of the tongue or lip
Our post on the warning signs of mouth cancer explains each one and how to check your own mouth.
Where can you get an oral cancer exam in Jacksonville?
If you are due for an exam or have noticed a change, contact our office or call 904-398-1549. If cancer is diagnosed, we coordinate dental care with your medical team before and during treatment. Learn more about dental care around head and neck cancer.
Sources
American Cancer Society. Key statistics for oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers. Last revised March 23, 2026. Estimates based on Cancer Facts & Figures 2026.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Oral cancer. Retrieved October 6, 2026.
Oral Cancer Foundation. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month.
About the author. CJ Henley, DMD, is a general dentist in Jacksonville whose practice focuses on cosmetic and restorative dentistry, dental implants and dental care around head and neck cancer. His role is dental care and coordination with your medical team. He does not provide cancer treatment. Meet Dr. Henley.
CJ Henley, DMD, PA · 3675 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207 · 904-398-1549
Updated October 2026.