Oral cancer is very serious; studies show that around 54,000 new cases of the disease are diagnosed annually, with almost half of those cases having a grim prognosis. But believe it or not, oral cancer is also among the most preventable types of cancer out there, and with a little knowledge and assistance from your dentist, you can easily safeguard your smile from precancerous conditions. In honor of Oral Cancer Awareness Month this April, here’s what your dentist in Queens wants you to know about the disease!
Common Oral Cancer Risk Factors
Oral cancer can often be categorized into two groups: cancers of the oral cavity, which affect the lips, teeth, gums, cheeks, front of the tongue, and roof and floor of the mouth, and cancers of the oropharynx, which affect the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue. A few common risk factors associated with both varieties of these cancers include:
- Excessive smoking, drinking, and tobacco use
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
- Sun or radiation exposure
- Old age
- Weakened immune system
- Other types of head or neck cancer
- Chronically poor oral hygiene
Warning Signs to Watch For
Oral cancer is rarely obvious; however, there are many warning signs that you should keep an eye out for. Don’t hesitate to contact your dentist if any of the following issues persist for longer than two weeks:
- Notable swelling in the mouth, throat, or neck
- Hard lumps and bumps that form around the gums, cheeks, and tongue
- Red, pink, white, or black sores that don’t heal and bleed easily when touched
- Difficulty speaking, biting, chewing, or swallowing
- A change in how your teeth fit together when you close your mouth
- The feeling that something’s stuck in your throat
Tips for Preventing Oral Cancer
Even though it’s simply not possible to entirely prevent oral cancer, there are many things you can do to drastically lower your risk of it. The absolute best thing you can do is continue to visit your dentist biannually for checkups and cleanings; these visits include an oral cancer screening that allows your provider to closely examine your mouth for any signs of cancer. Additionally, consider the following tips:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene; a clean mouth is far less likely to encounter issues including cancer.
- If you smoke or use tobacco products, quit the habit entirely—these products are notorious for causing various types of cancer.
- Don’t sweat the small stuff—even using SPF lip balm or wearing a hat to shade your face can prove useful in preventing oral cancer.
About the Practice
The team at LIC Dental Associates at Court Square / Queen’s Plaza has proudly served patients and families in Queens, NY for several years. They offer the finest in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services and would be more than happy to work with you to help you achieve the brightest and whitest smile imaginable. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re due for your next checkup, don’t hesitate to contact the practice online or by phone for further assistance. Telephone: (718) 280-3286.