November is Mouth Cancer Action Month! 

Dental professionals like you have one of the most significant roles in advocating oral cancer awareness.

We’ve put together seven ways dental health professionals—dentists, hygienists, and assistants—can spread awareness and reduce patients' chances of becoming another statistic. 

Let’s get started . . . 

Why Oral Cancer Awareness Is Important

The latest statistics on oral cancer in the United States are from 2020. Here are some of the numbers to be aware of:

• Number of new cases a year: 45,703

• Number of Deaths a year: 10,835 people 

• Male to Female Ratio: 3:4

Look at these statistics—it's apparent why early detection is so important. As a dental professional, you can save lives by identifying early signs and promoting awareness by encouraging preventive behaviors and regular screenings.

3 Reasons to Spread Awareness

1. Increase Survival Rates: Patients diagnosed early with oral cancer have a much higher chance of successful treatment. Advocating for awareness can help patients recognize symptoms sooner.
2. Increasing Awareness of Risk Factors: Many patients are unaware that lifestyle choices—like smoking, alcohol consumption, and even certain dietary habits—can significantly impact their oral health.
3. Supporting Preventative Health Practices: Educating patients about the connection between their oral and overall health encourages them to make positive lifestyle changes and take preventive steps.

6 Ways Dental Professionals Can Promote Oral Cancer Awareness

Whether you’re a dentist, hygienist, or assistant, there are ways to advocate for awareness during Mouth Cancer Action Month and beyond—Here’s how each role can make a difference:

1. Integrate Regular Oral Cancer Screenings Into Appointments

Every dental team member supports routine screenings, encouraging patients to make oral cancer screening a regular part of their dental visits.

Let’s take a look at each role and how they can influence and prevent oral cancer through screenings: 

• Dentists: Educate patients using visual and tactile exams during checkups —Make it clear that screenings are quick and painless.
• Hygienists: During cleanings, remind patients about early detection and explain the screening process. Reinforcing this message helps patients see screenings as part of their routine care.
• Dental Assistants: Help educate patients on what to expect. Encourage them to ask questions about screenings and their benefits.

2. Educate Patients on Oral Cancer Risks and Prevention

Patient education is a central part of a dental professional’s role. Discussing the risks and prevention strategies can help patients make informed decisions about their health.

• Discuss Lifestyle Risk Factors: Mention the risks associated with tobacco, alcohol, and poor diet. For patients in higher-risk groups, like those over 40 or with a family history of cancer, discuss additional ways to reduce their risk.
• Encourage Self-Exams: Explain how patients can perform simple self-checks at home. This will empower them to identify anything unusual( lumps, sores, or patches) in their mouth. 

3. Use Social Media to Spread Awareness

Reaching current patients and a broader audience through social media can be influential.

• Educational Posts: In November, there will be a post about oral cancer statistics, symptoms, and prevention tips.
• Patent Stories: Share stories of patients who detected oral cancer early and their outcomes—this can motivate and inspire others to prioritize screenings and preventative measures.

4. Offer Patients Take-home Resources

Patients can reinforce your message after their appointment by taking home informative resources.

• Create Educational Kits: Prepare small kits with brochures on mouth cancer symptoms, self-exam instructions, and tips for reducing risk factors.
• Offer Self-Exam Guides: A guide with visuals and step-by-step instructions on performing a self-exam at home is an excellent addition to a patient’s oral health routine.

5. Participate in Community Outreach

Dental professionals can make an impact beyond their practice by participating in community events, health fairs, or school presentations.

• Join Local Health Fairs: Offer free screenings or hand out educational materials at local health events. This can increase your visibility while supporting oral health awareness.
• Present at Schools or Community Centers: Educating younger audiences and local community groups about oral health can impact mouth cancer awareness in the long term—Explain the basics of oral health and its connection to overall health, emphasizing prevention.

6. Continue to Learn, Train, and Grow 

The more informed and well-prepared your team is, the more assured you can feel in providing accurate and up-to-date patient information.

• Provide Continuing Education for Staff: Attend training sessions or seminars focused on the latest in oral cancer prevention and detection techniques. Being informed helps the entire team communicate confidently with patients.
• Encourage Open Communication with Patients: Patients feel more comfortable and receptive when discussing oral health openly. Ensure that your team is there to answer any questions about oral cancer and general oral health.

What Starts in November Can Keep on Happening! 

Oral Cancer Action Month reminds us of oral cancer's impact in November and year-round.

Let’s work together to educate, empower, and protect our patients and communities from oral cancer—one screening and one conversation at a time.

 

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