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Approximately 49,750 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer each year, resulting in over 9,750 deaths. At Family First Dentistry in Anchorage, AK, their trusted dentists aim to decrease each patient’s risk of developing oral cancer. However, they cannot do it alone. By taking preventative measures and quitting bad habits, you can help lower your susceptibility to this deadly disease, and achieve a healthy, beautiful smile along the way.

5 Tips for Preventing Oral Cancer

1. Quit Your Bad Habits

dentistSmoking, chewing tobacco, and drinking alcohol in excess are three of the leading causes of oral cancer. To significantly reduce your risk of developing this disease, quit any bad habits you may have and start leading a cleaner, healthier life.

2. Limit Sun Exposure

Contact with the sun’s powerful rays is another risk factor attributed to oral cancer. Stay indoors as much as possible between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its strongest.

3. Use Lip Balm

If you do need to go out in the sun, protect your mouth with a lip balm that contains 30 SPF or higher.

4. Boost Your Immune System

Supporting your immune system is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of oral cancer. Brush and floss twice a day to keep harmful bacteria from harming your mouth, exercise regularly, and always eat your fruits and veggies.

5. Schedule Regular Dental Visits

Your family dentist can perform an oral cancer screening at every six-month checkup. Early detection is key in the treatment of oral cancer, and can greatly increase your chances of survival should you develop it.

The dentists at Family First Dentistry have joined the fight against oral cancer, and they ask that you do, too. All it takes is a couple of lifestyle adjustments and a few minutes out of your day. Be proactive with your health by calling (907) 562-2820 to schedule an oral cancer screening with Anchorage’s leading dental team. Visit the website to learn more about their services, such as routine teeth cleaning, whitening treatments, and sedation dentistry.

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