It’s one of those health warnings you don’t want to hear—but need to. Oral cancer can start quietly, with changes so subtle you barely notice. A sore that won’t heal. A patch that shifts in color. A strange lump. All of these could be the early whispers of something serious.

It might show up on your lips from too much sun or smoking. On your tongue as a stubborn ulcer, on your gums mimicking gum disease, or beneath your tongue—where it hides until it’s too late.

What should make you pause? Persistent mouth sores. Spots, red or white, that don’t go away. Unexplained lumps. Trouble chewing, swallowing or speaking. Loose teeth with no obvious cause. Bad breath that won’t relent.

Risk factors? Tobacco in any form, heavy drinking, tons of sun, HPV, poor oral hygiene, bad-fitting dentures, and family history. The good news: you can fight back. Quit smoking. Limit alcohol. Use sun protection. Eat antioxidant-rich foods. Keep that toothbrush busy. And yes, talk to your doc about HPV shots.

Dentists spot most early cases during routine checkups—often when you’re there for a cleaning, not a crisis. That’s why seeing your dentist twice a year isn’t just good hygiene—it could save your life.