November Is National Mouth Cancer Awareness Month: A Message from Dr. Parque and Smiles of Spokane

Each November, dental professionals and health advocates come together to recognize National Mouth Cancer Awareness Month — a time dedicated to raising awareness about cancers that affect the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat.

At Smiles of Spokane, Dr. Parque and our team believe that awareness and early detection are key to saving lives. Mouth cancer can affect anyone, but with regular dental check-ups and education, we can help catch signs early when treatment is most effective.

Why This Awareness Month Matters

Mouth cancer is more common than many realize, and its incidence has been rising in recent years. Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed late — when symptoms are already advanced.

When detected early, however, mouth cancer has a survival rate of up to 90%. That’s why our team at Smiles of Spokane places a strong emphasis on routine oral cancer screenings during every comprehensive dental exam. These screenings are quick, painless, and could make a life-changing difference.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Dr. Parque encourages every patient to stay alert to changes in their mouth. Some of the most common warning signs include:

• Persistent mouth ulcers that don’t heal within three weeks

• Lumps, swelling, or thickened areas in the mouth or neck

• Red or white patches inside the mouth or on the tonguePain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or lips

• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking

If you notice any of these symptoms, please don’t wait — schedule an appointment right away.

Risk Factors You Should Know

Several factors can increase your risk of developing mouth cancer:

• Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)

• Frequent or heavy alcohol use

• HPV (human papillomavirus) infectionExcessive sun exposure (particularly for lip cancer)

• Poor diet low in fruits and vegetables

Making small, healthy lifestyle changes — and maintaining consistent dental check-ups — can go a long way in protecting your oral health.

How Smiles of Spokane Can Help

Every dental exam with Dr. Parque includes a thorough oral cancer screening. Using years of clinical experience and a careful eye for detail, Dr. Parque checks for early signs that might not be visible or painful yet.

At Smiles of Spokane, our goal is not only to help you achieve a beautiful smile, but also to help you maintain a healthy one — for life.

Join Us in Raising Awareness

This November, we invite our Spokane community to join us in spreading the word: early detection saves lives.

Here’s how you can help:

• Share this message with friends and family.

• Encourage loved ones to schedule regular dental exams.

• Post about #MouthCancerAction or #OralCancerAwareness on social media.

• Take a few minutes to check your own mouth at home each month.

Your Health Is Our Priority

As we observe National Mouth Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Parque and the Smiles of Spokane team want to remind you that prevention starts with awareness — and with routine care.

If it’s been more than six months since your last dental visit, now is the perfect time to schedule your appointment. Together, we can protect your smile and your overall health.

📞 Call Smiles of Spokane today at 509-838-4165 or book your appointment online to schedule your oral cancer screening with Dr. Parque.