What You Should Know About Your Risks of Oral Cancer

Practicing preventive dental care involves more than simply keeping your teeth clean by brushing and flossing daily. One of the main reasons is to avoid other serious health issues from developing—including oral cancer. But how do you know if you’re at risk of this condition? Read on to learn about the signs for oral cancer and how you can minimize your chances with the help of your dentist in Oshkosh!

What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?

Mouth cancer occurs in and around your oral cavity, from your lips to the inner linings of your cheeks. Should you experience any signs of it that last for more than two weeks, you should visit your dentist right away. These symptoms include:

• Mouth or ear discomfort
• Difficult or painful swallowing
• White or red patches inside your mouth
• Lip or mouth sores that won’t heal
• A growth or lump inside of your mouth
• Loose or weakened teeth

What Are the Risk Factors?

Oral cancer is known to form when the cells around your mouth have their DNA mutated. When this happens, the cells will constantly grow and divide, accumulating and creating a tumor that can spread throughout the body. While the cause of these mutations isn’t exactly clear, there are certain factors that can affect your cells. The most common risks include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, overexposure to sunlight, and a weakened immune system.

How Can I Help Prevent Oral Cancer?

Knowing your risk factors is the first step to reducing your chances of oral cancer, other than maintaining proper dental hygiene. Here are a few primary methods to help you prevent this condition:

• Visit your dentist often: Your dentist can monitor your oral health to treat any developing issues and work to minimize your risks.
• Commit to quitting tobacco: Even if you don’t use tobacco, it’s best to actively avoid it. Smoking or chewing these products can expose your mouth to cancer-causing chemicals.
• Moderate or eliminate alcohol use: Excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the cells in your mouth, making them susceptible to oral cancer.
• Avoid prolonged sunlight: If you’re going to be outside, try wearing sunscreen on your lips, wearing a hat to cover your face, or staying in the shade.

By understanding your risks and practicing preventive measures, you can be more likely to preserve your best dental health. Speak with your dentist if you have any concerns, and they’ll be glad to help you!

About the Author

Dr. Bob Heil graduated with his dental degree from the University of Minnesota and continues to pursue advanced training to stay on top of the latest advances in dentistry. He enjoys delivering high-quality, modern, and comprehensive dental care to help patients maintain great dental health. He also offers a multitude of treatments, including checkups, cleanings, and oral cancer screenings to protect your overall well-being. If you’d like to schedule an appointment or want to know more about preventing oral cancer, feel free to visit our website or call 920-235-0320.