10/12/2025
Why Oral Cancer Often Goes Unnoticed โ And How OMFS Plays a Critical Role in Early Detection**
Oral cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers in India โ
yet it is also one of the most preventable, and one of the most curable when caught early.
The tragedy is this:
Most patients notice it only when itโs too late.
Hereโs why early awareness matters:
1๏ธโฃ Oral Cancer Usually Starts Painlessly
Early signs do not hurt, which is why patients ignore them.
Look out for:
โข A small ulcer that wonโt heal
โข A white or red patch
โข A firm lump in the mouth
โข Tightness while opening the mouth
โข Persistent burning sensation
โข Unexplained bleeding
If it lasts more than 2 weeks, it needs evaluation.
2๏ธโฃ To***co & Areca Nut Are the Biggest Culprits
But oral cancer also occurs in people with no habits.
Risk factors include:
โข HPV infection
โข Sharp teeth causing chronic irritation
โข Poor oral hygiene
โข Alcohol
โข Sun exposure (lip cancer)
No one is completely safe โ awareness is for everyone.
3๏ธโฃ Early Diagnosis Saves Jaws, Faces, and Lives
When detected late, oral cancer may require:
โข Jaw removal
โข Large facial reconstruction
โข Neck dissection
โข Radiotherapy & chemotherapy
But early detection allows simple surgery with excellent outcomes.
4๏ธโฃ OMFS Specialists Are at the Frontline of Detection
Maxillofacial surgeons are trained to:
โข Identify early suspicious lesions
โข Perform biopsies
โข Stage the cancer
โข Discuss treatment pathways
โข Coordinate reconstruction if needed
We not only treat disease โ
we protect the structure that shapes the face, airway, and identity.
5๏ธโฃ Prevention Is Powerful
Simple lifestyle choices reduce the risk drastically:
โข Stop to***co and areca nut
โข Limit alcohol
โข Maintain oral hygiene
โข Avoid chronic cheek biting
โข Wear lip sunscreen
โข Get regular oral screenings
Small habits. Massive impact.
**Oral cancer is silent โ
but early awareness gives it no chance to hide.**
Cleft โข OMFS โข Craniofacial
Maxillofacial Surgery Education โ DrVM