Oral Cancer - Risk Factors, Screening, and Prevention

Posted on Apr 7, 2016

It’s important to visit your dentist in Belmont regularly to check for signs of oral cancer. If you have anxiety about dental care, look for a dentist that practices sedation dentistry. Oral cancer is a serious disease that can occur anywhere in the mouth. Fortunately, when caught early, chances of successful treatment are high. That’s why it’s vital that you visit your dentist for regular check-ups. Read on to learn more about how you can avoid oral cancer.

Risk Factors

There are several lifestyle factors that can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. The use of tobacco is one of the most well-known risk factors for oral cancer. Whether it is used in the form of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or smokeless tobacco, this substance can increase your chances of developing cancer. In addition, alcohol abuse can also make you more prone to oral cancer. Finally, those that have poor eating habits and consume a diet that is lacking in fruits and vegetables have a higher risk of developing oral cancer.

Screening

Fortunately, oral cancer screenings can be completed quickly and are pain-free. During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will check your teeth, gums, lips, face, neck, jaw, and tongue for signs of cancer. This procedure is so quick that it can be done during a normal teeth cleaning appointment, or even during an appointment for a cavity filling or root canal. If your dentist finds signs of cancer, he or she may recommend having the affected area biopsied for a more specific diagnosis.

Prevention

The best way to avoid developing oral cancer is to practice prevention. This entails living a healthy lifestyle, including eating a nutritious diet and avoiding alcohol and cigarettes. In addition, it’s important to develop a good daily oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth twice a day with a toothpaste containing fluoride, and floss in between your teeth daily. In addition, you should reduce the amount of sweets that you eat in order to avoid tooth decay. Finally, visit your dentist regularly for dental cleanings and examinations.