Dentists are trained to do exams to detect early signs of oral cancer which has been on the rise in recent decades. When detected early, the repercussions are much more manageable or require minimal treatment. Alternatively, the longer cancer goes untreated, the more it grows and spreads.

Unfortunately, early on most patients feel no pain in their mouth until it progresses beyond the early stages, at which time, more significant measures must be taken to remove the disease. Viruses such as HPV and tobacco use have been the greatest contributors to oral cancer. Yearly screening are highly recommended for all patients regardless of age.