You probably don’t think about oral cancer—but maybe you should.
More than 54,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer each year. Many of them never saw it coming. It starts quietly: a sore that doesn’t heal, a patch that looks a little off, a voice that stays hoarse. Too often, people ignore these signs—until it’s too late for easy treatment.
But here’s the truth: when caught early, oral cancer has a much higher survival rate. At Healthy Connections, our medical and dental providers are trained to detect the signs of oral cancer quickly and painlessly—often during a routine checkup. It’s a simple step that could save your life.
Know the Risks, Spot the Signs
Oral cancer can affect your lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, and gums. It’s more common in people who use tobacco or drink alcohol regularly, but it’s not limited to those habits. Human papillomavirus (HPV), sun exposure, poor oral hygiene, and even family history can all raise your risk.
You should be concerned if you notice:
- A mouth sore that doesn’t heal after two weeks
- White or red patches inside your mouth
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
- Lumps or thickened areas in your cheeks or neck
- Unexplained bleeding, numbness, or pain
- Trouble chewing, swallowing, or speaking
These symptoms may seem minor—but they’re often the only warning signs before oral cancer becomes far more dangerous. Don’t wait. Talk to your provider.
Why Screenings Matter—And How We Can Help
Here’s the good news: early detection changes everything. When oral cancer is found early, treatment is simpler, recovery is faster, and survival rates increase dramatically.
At Healthy Connections clinics across Arkansas, our Family Nurse Practitioners and dental professionals include oral cancer screenings as part of our preventive care. These are fast, non-invasive, and can be done during your regular appointment.
We also encourage you to do regular self-checks. Use a mirror. Look under your tongue. Run your fingers along your gums and neck. If something feels or looks unusual, schedule an evaluation.
What to Expect from Healthy Connections
Our providers don’t just treat—we educate, guide, and support. Whether you visit our dental clinics in Hot Springs or Mena, or one of our many other Arkansas primary care locations, you can expect:
- Routine Oral Cancer Screenings during medical or dental visits
- Personalized Risk Assessments based on your lifestyle and medical history
- Patient Education on tobacco cessation, oral hygiene, and diet
- Referrals to Specialists when needed for advanced testing or treatment
- Bilingual Staff at several locations to ensure clear, accessible care
We believe early detection isn’t just about saving lives—it’s about giving you peace of mind.
Now’s the Time to Act
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, but the danger doesn’t wait—and neither should you. If it’s been more than a year since your last oral cancer screening, or if you’ve noticed any symptoms, schedule an appointment today.
Call Healthy Connections at 888-710-8220 or visit healthy-connections.org to find the clinic nearest you. Your health is too important to leave to chance—and we’re here to help you protect it.
