How long does it take to develop oral cancer symptoms?

Sometimes never: If you believe you way have oral cancer see a dentist as soon as possible. Sometimes there are no symptoms. By the time you develope symptoms it is very late.

Could take years: It also depends on if you smoke, drink alcohol, or engage in other high risk behaviors. Don't wait for symptoms to appear, though. Your dentist should be doing an oral cancer exam to detect early signs and pre-cancerous lesions. This should be done at every checkup visit.