Never Smoked? Here's Why You Should Still Have Routine Oral Cancer Screenings

It’s no secret that tobacco use is a major risk factor for oral cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, tobacco of all kinds is one of the leading causes of oral cancer. But what often gets left out of the conversation is the growing number of people being diagnosed with oral cancer who have never smoked a day in their lives.

That’s because other factors like alcohol use, HPV infection, sun exposure (for lip cancers), poor oral hygiene, a weakened immune system, and even genetics can significantly raise your risk. Oral cancer is on the rise; The American Cancer Society estimates that over 58,000 people in the US will get oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year alone. 

However, an early diagnosis can make a life-saving difference. That’s why even nonsmokers should be getting routine oral cancer screenings. At OneSource Dental of South Tampa in Tampa, Florida, Nancy Horton, DMD, and our team are trained to detect even the earliest signs of oral cancer and guide you through the next steps if something suspicious turns up. 

Here, we explain what makes oral cancer screenings so important, who should be getting them, and what to expect during one.

What is oral cancer, exactly?

Oral cancer refers to cancers that develop in the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, floor or roof of the mouth, and throat. 

In its early stages, oral cancer often doesn’t cause pain or apparent symptoms. A common sign is a small sore or patch that doesn’t go away. That’s what makes regular screenings so critical; by the time symptoms become noticeable, the cancer may already be advanced.

I don’t smoke, am I really at risk?

The short answer is yes. While tobacco is still a top risk factor, it’s not the only one. Human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV-16, has become one of the leading causes of oropharyngeal cancers. It’s transmitted through oral sex and affects a wide range of people regardless of lifestyle.

Other nonsmoking risk factors include:

• Heavy alcohol use
• Prolonged sun exposure (particularly for lip cancer)
• Chronic irritation, like poorly fitting dentures
• A family history of cancer
• Age (most cases occur in people over 40)

You don’t need to have multiple risk factors to develop oral cancer. And with rates increasing among younger people and nonsmokers, playing it safe with regular checkups is smart.

What happens during an oral cancer screening?

An oral cancer screening is quick, painless, and usually part of your regular dental checkup. Dr. Horton begins with a visual exam. She looks inside your mouth for any red or white patches, sores, swelling, or other unusual spots.

She then feels around your jaw, neck, and throat to check for lumps or firmness that could signal a problem. If anything looks suspicious, she guides you through the next steps, which might include imaging tests, a biopsy, or a referral to a specialist. The whole process takes just a few minutes.

Why early detection matters

Oral cancer is highly treatable when caught early. The 5-year survival rate for early-stage oral cancer is around 85%. But if it isn’t detected until later, that rate drops significantly. Routine screenings can catch changes before they become dangerous. And if you ever do need treatment, early detection can mean simpler, less invasive options with better outcomes.

You don’t have to smoke to be at risk for oral cancer. At OneSource Dental of South Tampa, we’re committed to keeping you informed, supported, and healthy. If it’s been a while since your last checkup, or if you’ve never had a screening, now is the time. Schedule one with us today or call 813-879-9299.