You will likely develop a dental problem at some point in your life. It may be a cavity in some, gum disease for others, but a few may also get oral cancer. The latter can be worrying to think about, but it’s important you do your best to prevent this condition. In fact, some things can make you more prone to it. To help you protect your smile, here are risk factors for oral cancer you should know.
So, What Are Some Risk Factors of Oral Cancer?
Anyone can develop this issue, but there has been research to find what can increase your odds of it. While the exact cause still needs to be found, these are some things you may do that can make you more prone to it:
- Have excessive sun exposure, especially on your lips
- Frequently and heavily consume alcohol
- Smoke or chew tobacco
- Have Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Not only that, but you may be at a higher risk because of your age and gender. In particular, men and those who are older than 45.
What Signs Should I Watch Out For?
If you have any of the factors above, then it’s important that you familiarize yourself with the symptoms of oral cancer. While it often manifests differently per person, these are a few signs that you should keep an eye out for:
- Notice white or red patches
- Get sores or lumps that don’t heal within two weeks
- Have trouble swallowing and chewing
- Difficulty moving your jaw or tongue
- Persistent bad breath
How Can I Prevent Oral Cancer?
No matter what, there are steps you can take to prevent oral cancer. It can even be as easy as using SPF lip balm or wearing a hat that shades your face. These handy things can block sunrays that may be a problem and protect your smile.
Not only that, but keep up with a balanced diet and your dental hygiene routine. Doing so will let you support your body and mouth, so they are both healthy. If you smoke or drink alcohol, then consider limiting how often you partake or quitting entirely.
The good news is that this condition is one of the most preventable types of cancer. By having visits with your periodontist, you can ensure there isn’t anything to worry about. Any issues will be caught early, and they can be treated as soon as possible. That way, you have a higher chance of a successful treatment and get back your strong grin.
About the Author
Dr. Eduardo Lorenzana earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and is a proud periodontist. With over 25 years of experience, he is happy to help the San Antonio community make sure their gums are in great shape and watch out for oral cancer. If there is anything awry, Dr. Lorenzana can get it fixed to give you the best shot at a quick and easy recovery. If you have any of the signs of this condition, schedule an appointment or call our office at (210) 492-3519.