April 28, 2025

Oral Cancer Awareness Deep Dive: The Silent Risks, Signs & Tips For Prevention

In this special Oral Cancer Awareness Month episode of Let’s Talk Smiles, guest co-hosts Chris Jordan and Nia Lawrence join us for a deep dive into the eye-opening conversation that Dr. Catrise Austin recently had with Dr. Parul Dua Makkar, a passionate oral cancer advocate. Together, they explore the hidden risks of oral cancer, who’s most at risk (it’s not just smokers), and why early detection through dental screenings is so critical. Tune in for powerful insights, personal stories, and practical tips that could help save lives.

Show Notes

Dr. Parul Dua Makkar is a dedicated dentist, author, and oral cancer advocate whose mission is rooted in a deeply personal experience. After losing her brother, Dr. Manu Dua, a fellow dentist, to oral cancer at the young age of 34, Dr. Makkar committed herself to raising awareness and promoting early detection. She educates both healthcare providers and patients about the risks, signs, and prevention of oral cancer, ensuring that her brother’s legacy continues to make an impact.

Key Takeaways:

Oral cancer isn’t just a smoker’s disease—non-smokers are at risk too.
Warning signs of oral cancer include non-healing sores, red or white patches, and difficulty swallowing.
Early detection during routine dental visits can make the difference between life and death.

Q&A Section:

Q: What event prompted Dr. Parul Dua Makkar’s strong interest in oral cancer?

A: Dr. Makkar’s profound commitment to oral cancer awareness began after losing her younger brother, Dr. Manu Dua, to the disease at just 34 years old. His diagnosis came as a shock, highlighting the need for increased education and early detection—even in healthy individuals without traditional risk factors.

Q: Is oral cancer exclusively linked to smoking?

A: No, smoking and alcohol are well-known risk factors, but Dr. Makkar stresses that oral cancer can affect non-smokers too. An increasing number of cases are being diagnosed in individuals without these habits, which makes regular screenings even more important.

Q: What suspicious signs in the mouth should people be aware of?

A: Look out for red or white patches, sores that haven’t healed in two weeks, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, trouble moving the tongue, or unexplained pain while eating. If you notice any of these, don’t ignore them—seek professional evaluation.

Q: What should dental professionals be looking for during routine checkups beyond plaque, tartar, and cavities?

A: Dentists should perform a comprehensive oral cancer screening, checking for any abnormal red or white areas, lesions, or symptoms reported by the patient, such as difficulty swallowing or persistent pain. This screening should be a regular part of every dental exam.

Q: How is a definitive diagnosis of oral cancer made if a suspicious lesion is found?

A: The gold standard for diagnosing oral cancer is a biopsy. This involves taking a tissue sample from the suspicious area and examining it under a microscope. Imaging tools like CBCT may help identify abnormalities, but only a biopsy can confirm cancer.

Q: What is the connection between HPV and oral cancer?

A: HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is linked to approximately 70% of oropharyngeal cancers (cancers in the back of the throat). Dr. Makkar emphasizes the role of HPV as a major risk factor and highlights the HPV vaccine as a protective measure.

Q: Besides smoking and alcohol, what other risk factors for oral cancer were discussed?

A: Additional risk factors include a family history of cancer, being male, having a weakened immune system, poor nutrition, vaping, chewing tobacco, and even radon gas exposure.

Q: What role do dental hygienists play in detecting oral cancer?

A: Dental hygienists are often the first line of defense. During cleanings, they can spot suspicious areas or changes in the mouth and alert the dentist for further evaluation. Their vigilance is crucial in the early detection process.

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