Spotting oral cancer early: tips and tricks?

I'm glad someone brought this up because honestly, it's something I've been kinda anxious about lately.

"Also, gently feel around your neck and jawline for anything unusual."

This is really good advice. A few months ago, I noticed a small lump under my jawline when adjusting my retainer at night. Freaked me out big time...I immediately thought the worst. Anyway, I panicked and booked an emergency dentist appointment the next day. Turned out it was just a swollen lymph node from a minor infection—but man, it scared me enough to make checking regularly a habit.

Since then, whenever I brush or floss (especially after tightening appointments—ugh), I quickly glance around my mouth and gums just to be safe. My dentist also suggested using my phone camera with flash turned on instead of relying only on bathroom mirrors—it actually helps see inside better.

Does anyone else get nervous about this stuff or am I just overthinking it?

You're definitely not alone—I think most of us get a bit paranoid about this stuff sometimes. I once convinced myself a tiny bump on my tongue was something serious...turned out I'd just burned it on hot pizza the night before.

"My dentist also suggested using my phone camera with flash turned on instead of relying only on bathroom mirrors"

That's actually genius, never thought of that. Has anyone else found other handy tricks for checking those hard-to-see spots?