At some point in your life, you may develop an oral health issue. Whether it’s a cavity or gum disease, they are things that millions of people get and treat. However, one dental problem that can be worrying to talk about is oral cancer. It’s important to understand more about it so you can do your best to prevent it, and there are some things that can put you at a higher risk. Here’s what you need to know.
So, What Can Put Me at Higher Risk of Oral Cancer?
While there is still research being done about what exactly causes oral cancer, these studies have started to find a link between different factors and the odds of developing it. These are some that have been found:
- Smoking and chewing tobacco
- Frequent, heavy alcohol consumption
- Excess sun exposure, particularly on your lips
- Age and gender, specifically men and those older than 45
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
What Are the Signs of Oral Cancer?
Although several things can increase your risk of oral cancer, it’s also important to familiarize yourself with its symptoms. It can manifest differently per person, but here is what patients often experience:
- White or red patches
- Lumps or sores that don’t heal or last longer than two weeks
- Difficulty chewing and swallowing
- Trouble moving their tongue or jaw
- Persistent bad breath
How Can I Reduce My Risk of Oral Cancer?
With all that said, you might be worried about developing oral cancer. The good news is that there are ways that you can prevent it. Consider using SPF lip balm or wear a hat that shades your face if you plan on being outside for a long time. This can help block sunrays and protect your smile.
You should also keep up with a balanced diet and your dental hygiene routine. This will help support your body and mouth, keeping both healthy. Not only that, but try to limit your alcohol consumption and consider quitting smoking entirely.
Better yet, oral cancer is considered to be among the most preventable types. Everything above is great to do at home, but don’t forget to visit your dentist. They will be able to monitor any changes and catch problems early. That way, if anything is worrying, you can get it treated right away and give yourself the highest chance of a successful treatment and a stronger grin.
About the Practice
At Kessler Park Dental, our team is dedicated to helping Dallas patients protect their smiles to support their overall health. Dr. Jayme Martinez is proud to provide oral cancer screening as a part of routine visits; that way, you have the best chance of catching concerns early. If you are due for your neck checkup and cleaning, schedule an appointment or call our office at (214) 303-9969.
