Many people believe oral cancer only affects older adults, but fact: it can occur at any age. Another myth is that only smokers get oral cancer; fact: tobacco increases risk, but poor oral hygiene, HPV infection, and excessive sun exposure to lips also play a role. Some think oral cancer is always painful—fact: early stages may show no pain, only small sores or color changes. A common myth is that regular dental visits aren’t important; fact: dentists can detect early warning signs. Early detection greatly improves treatment success and survival.