I am very thankful that I have been fortunate enough to find this Dentist Office. The entire staff are very pleasant and genuinely care about a good outcome regardless of your situation. You could not ask for better. Dr. Parker is great…😀 …
In recognition of Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we’re encouraging our patients to learn more about mouth and throat cancers this April. In this post, we’re sharing the factors that can increase your risk of developing oral cancer.
People with no known risk factors can still develop cancer, but knowing your risk is important for maintaining your health. Tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption are the main risk factors, but other factors can also increase your risk.
Call 256-274-8680 for an appointment at River Oaks Dental Care. Schedule a checkup with an oral cancer screening in Decatur, AL.
Oral Cancer Risk Factors
Tobacco Use
Using any kind of tobacco, including cigarettes, chewing tobacco, snuff, and cigars, the largest risk factor for oral cancer. Chewing tobacco or snuff can increase your risk of developing cancer in the cheeks, inside of the lips, and gums by 50%.
Approximately 85% of head and neck cancer is related to tobacco use. Secondhand smoke can also increase your risk of developing head and neck cancer.
Consuming Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can also increase your risk of developing oral cancer. The more you drink, the greater your risk. Frequent and heavy consumption of alcohol can increase your risk of oral cancer two to six times.
Additional Risk Factors For Oral Cancer
While tobacco use and alcohol consumption are the main risk factors, the following factors can also increase your risk of developing oral cancer:
- Prolonged sun exposure
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Gender
- Fair skin
- Age
- Poor oral hygiene
- Poor diet
- Weakened immune system
Signs And Symptoms Of Oral Cancer
Experiencing any of the following symptoms doesn’t definitively mean you have oral cancer, but you should see your dentist or doctor as soon as possible to get checked. The earlier oral cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. Here are the signs and symptoms of oral cancer to be aware of:
- A mouth or lip sore that lasts for longer than two weeks
- A white, red, or white and red patch on the inside of your mouth
- Loose teeth
- A growth or lump on your lip or inside your mouth
- Mouth pain
- Ear pain
- Painful or difficulty swallowing
- Voice changes, hoarseness, or difficulty speaking
- Constantly feeling like something is caught in your throat
Call Today For An Oral Cancer Screening In Decatur, Alabama
Even if you aren’t experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, visit River Oaks Dental Care to stay on top of your oral health. Our oral cancer screenings are quick and painless.
Call 256-274-8680 or schedule online to set up an appointment at River Oaks Dental Care in Decatur, AL.