Oral cancer is serious; according to the American Cancer Society, over 11,000 lives are lost every year to this terrible disease—and it affects many more. Late diagnoses often make treatment complicated, and despite the constant advancements in healthcare and science, there is still no definitive cure for oral cancer. However, there are many risk factors and warning signs associated with oral cancer and knowing what to look for and how to take care of your mouth can go a long way towards preventing it. Keep reading to learn more.
What Puts Me at Risk for Oral Cancer?
There have been quite a few things linked to oral cancer, including:
- Smoking and tobacco use (cigarettes, pipes, cigars, smokeless and chewing tobacco)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
- A weakened immune system
- Sun or radiation exposure
- Other types of head or neck cancer
- Old age
How Can I Minimize My Risk of Developing Oral Cancer?
Luckily, oral cancer is among the most preventable types of cancer and there are many things you can do to reduce your chances of developing it. The best thing you can do is to never start smoking or quit if you already do—smoking is notorious for causing cancer, among many other health problems!
You should also fortify your body and immune system, and a healthy, well-balanced diet is a great way to do this. Consider implementing plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs into your diet. Also try to avoid excess sugar and processed foods to help prevent bacterial growth inside of your mouth.
There are also measures you can take to protect the outside of your mouth; wearing SPF lip balm and limiting your mouth’s exposure to the sun can do a lot to shield you. Also show caution when enjoying extremely hot beverages and foods—these items can burn you and increase the risk of bacterial infection.
Lastly, take good care of your mouth and keep it clean! Brush and floss twice a day and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Doing the little things consistently and well can make a huge difference when it comes to preventing oral cancer.
What Warning Signs Should I Watch For?
Every part of your mouth is vulnerable to oral cancer, meaning there are a few things to look out for:
- Swelling in your neck and throat
- Lumps in your cheeks
- Red/white sores on your gums, tonsils, or mouth tissue
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw and tongue
- Loose teeth
- Constant bad breath
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms for two or more weeks, contact your dentist immediately. Prolonging treatment will increase the risk of oral cancer developing, or some other problem.
Even though oral cancer is preventable, it depends heavily on your willingness to make smart lifestyle choices. This Oral Cancer Awareness Month, be mindful of what can cause this deadly disease and take the necessary steps to protect your mouth!
About the Author
Dr. Michael C. Byars is honored to serve the dental needs of patients and families in Kansas City! Dr. Byars received his DDS from the University of Missouri at Kansas City and is a member of many professional organizations including the American Dental Association, the Missouri Dental Association, the Greater Kansas City Dental Society and more. His practice offers a wide range of services including oral cancer screenings. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, feel free to contact him online or by telephone: (816) 781-8222.